Final answer:
Medical assistants need to know the scope of practice, which outlines their professional responsibilities and is determined by each state's medical practice act. They must also adhere to ethical principles like the principles of autonomy and beneficence in healthcare settings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Medical assistants must understand the principles of self-boundaries, or scope of practice, within their profession. Each state in the U.S. has its own medical practice act, which dictates these boundaries. Scope of practice defines the procedures, actions, and processes that a healthcare practitioner is permitted to undertake in keeping with the terms of their professional license.
The principle of autonomy states that patients have the right to exercise agency or self-determination when making decisions about their own healthcare. It ensures that patients can independently make choices regarding their treatment options. Meanwhile, the principle of beneficence compels medical professionals to act in ways that benefit or promote the well-being of others. These ethical principles play a crucial role in determining how medical assistants and other healthcare professionals carry out their duties in great alignment with the legal and ethical standards of practice.
Medical assistants are an essential part of the healthcare team, and being aware of the scope of their practice is key to providing safe and effective care. They must balance the ethical principles with the legal boundaries set by each state's medical practice act, ensuring that they always work within their permitted scope of practice.