About this course
This course introduces Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) to the NADSP Code of Ethics and to direct support as a true profession. Part one covers the history of the profession: how direct support moved from institutional caregiving to community partnership, why the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) was formed, and why a shared code of ethics matters. Part two teaches each of the code's nine tenets through realistic DSP scenarios: person-centered supports; physical and emotional well-being; professionalism, accountability, and growth; confidentiality and privacy; justice, fairness, equity, and inclusion; respect; relationships and social roles; self-determination and choice; and advocacy. Part three examines ethical dilemmas in daily work — what to do when good principles compete, how to reason through a dilemma, and when to bring in your supervisor. Part four connects the code to your career: NADSP certification, the E-Badge Academy, the fifteen competency areas, and professional identity. Suitable for new-hire orientation, annual refresher training, and state DSP training requirements that cover ethics and professionalism.