Scope of Practice & Code of Ethics
FOR THE END-OF-LIFE DOULA
When End-of-Life Doulas adhere to a Code of Ethics, they bring legitimacy to the role and security to the communities they serve. The ethical standards set forth here are a guide when ethical uncertainties arise, and the standard we expect our graduates to abide by.
Commitment
- The primary focus of an EOL doula & Coach is the dying individual; they involve the loved ones as much as the dying person desires. The doula is dedicated to helping the dying maintain their dignity and comfort throughout all stages of the dying process.
- An EOL Doula & Coach respects all individuals in word and deed—clients, their loved ones, caregivers, and colleagues. They honor each person's dignity, personal opinions, care preferences, interaction styles, and decisions, regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation, immigration status, lifestyle, or mental and physical abilities.
Competence
- The EOL Doula & Coach represents themselves as competent only within their training and knowledge and related education, strictly adhering to their defined scope of practice. They employ only techniques they are trained and supervised in and commit to ongoing formal and informal education to enhance their skills and better serve the dying.
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NEDA & INELDA are also well-respected institutions in the end-of-life doula realm. You can view their Scope of Practice and Code of Ethics as an additional resource.
