Texas Jurisprudence Exam Physician Assistant Practice Exam

Which of the following actions by a physician assistant could be considered an act of moral turpitude?

1. Providing emotional support to patients

2. Performing unnecessary medical procedures

3. Working overtime to support colleagues

4. Accurately reporting patient conditions

The correct answer is: Performing unnecessary medical procedures

Performing unnecessary medical procedures can be considered an act of moral turpitude because it signifies a deliberate dishonesty or unethical behavior in the healthcare profession. This action implies that the physician assistant would be knowingly subjecting patients to risks or discomfort for reasons other than their health needs, such as financial gain or personal benefit. Moral turpitude refers to conduct that is contrary to the accepted standards of morality and ethics within the medical field. Engaging in unnecessary procedures not only violates the trust between physician assistant and patient but also represents a serious breach of professional conduct, potentially leading to legal consequences or disciplinary actions. In contrast, providing emotional support to patients, working overtime to support colleagues, or accurately reporting patient conditions enhance the caring and ethical framework of the healthcare environment; these actions are typically regarded as positive and beneficial behaviors in the medical field.