Principles of Safe Practice

Physiotherapists should:

• Confine their use of acupuncture to treatment of conditions within the scope of practice of physiotherapy for which they have training and experience.
• Practice acupuncture with respect to the level of training they have received and should attend further training if they wish to extend the use of acupuncture within their practice; particularly in relation to needling the trunk, thorax and cervical regions.
• Only implement needle insertion techniques after attending a two day training course
• Comply with current legislation of any local, state or federal governing boards.
• Keep clearly documented records describing the acupuncture procedures. Warnings and informed consent should be noted. For consent of a child less than 16 years of age a parents or guardians consent should be gained and documented.
• Warnings and consent should include contraindications and precautions and possible adverse outcomes. Verbal consent is usually sufficient.
• Comply with the management of needle accidents and adverse reactions guidelines as outline in this procedure.
• Comply with hygiene requirements as outlined in this guide. They should be aware of any further local, state or federal hygiene requirements.
• Comply with the waste disposal guidelines for needles or bodily fluids as outlined in this document. Physiotherapists should be aware of additional requirements for waste disposal of needles or bodily fluids as set by local governing bodies.
• Should recognize and comply with the safety guidelines for moxibustion, cupping/spooning and application of auricular needles, press needles and beads as outline in this guide.