++
Thousands of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students have benefitted from the “ethical lens” provided by the ethics column written by Nancy Kirsch, PT, DPT, PhD, FAPTA, and published in PT in Motion. This series of ethics articles was a constant reminder to the physical therapy community about the ethical dimension of physical therapy practice in every setting. Ethical issues in physical therapy range from relatively simple challenges of courteous professional behavior and communication to vexing dilemmas between competing ethical obligations and confusing situations of moral ambiguity.
++
Dr. Kirsch’s ongoing work through publication and professional presentations has elevated our profession’s understanding of ethical issues in physical therapy. This new book continues this “moral dialogue” with the physical therapy community. The case studies draw on Dr. Kirsch’s wealth of professional experience and wisdom gained as a practitioner, educator, and leader in physical therapy. The importance of case deliberation in the development of moral reasoning skills has been wellestablished; and this book can be an important tool for students and practitioners in honing ethical reasoning skills. Dr. Kirsch’s ability to create real-life, practical, and engaging cases will be appreciated by students, educators, and clinicians frustrated by hypothetical cases that may miss the mark. I have no doubt that this book will become a trusted professional resource for students, educators, and practitioners confronting ethical issues in daily practice.
++
Laura Lee (Dolly) Swisher, PT, PhD, FNAP, FAPTA
++
Associate Dean, Professor, and Director
++
School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences
++
USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
++
University of South Florida
++