This ethical vignette discusses the technologist’s role when the examining physician misidentifies EMG waveforms and abnormalities. Technologists do not perform EMGs, but experienced technologists who assist when EMGs are done pick up basic knowledge about normal versus abnormal waveforms. This vignette will help technologists determine actions to be taken when they suspect inaccurate interpretation of EMG data. The reader also will learn how to recognize his/her responsibilities when EMG documentation is substandard and how to discuss this documentation with a physician.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this monograph is to familiarize the reader with the American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine’s (AANEM’s) Guidelines for Ethical Behavior Relating to Clinical Practice Issues in Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine. By utilizing true clinical scenarios, specific application of the guidelines can be discussed. Upon completion of these vignettes, the participants will acquire skills to (1) determine actions to be taken when the technologist suspects inaccurate interpretation of EMG data, (2) describe how to discuss EMG documentation with a physician who the technologist believes is doing substandard EMGs, and (3) recognize the technologist’s responsibilities when EMG tests or documentation are substandard. 

ACCREDITATION STATEMENT
The AANEM is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

CREDIT DESIGNATION
The AANEM designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits ^TM. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

DISCLOSURE INFORMATION
No one involved in the planning of this CME activity had any relevant financial relationships to disclose. Authors/Faculty had nothing to disclose.

FORMAT: PDF 

Mary E. Franklin, R. EEG T., CNCT, Jerry Morris, CNCT, MS, R.NCS.T., and David A. Simpson, DO, MS