Which aspect of physical therapy emphasizes professional ethics and standards of practice?

The aspect of physical therapy that emphasizes professional ethics and standards of practice is professionalism. This encompasses the moral principles and ethical guidelines that govern the behavior of physical therapists. Professionalism includes maintaining integrity, respect, and responsibility in all interactions with patients, colleagues, and the healthcare system. It is essential for building trust and ensuring quality care, as practitioners are expected to adhere to established standards of practice, demonstrate accountability, and engage in continuous professional development.

While patient advocacy focuses on representing and supporting the patients' rights and needs, and evidence-based practice is about utilizing the best current research to inform clinical decisions, these elements are components of professionalism rather than the overarching principle. Clinical training refers to the hands-on experience and education a therapist receives, which is important for skill development but does not specifically address ethical conduct.