According to the ASHA Code of Ethics, what should guide an SLP’s decision to discharge a student who has not met a specific speech goal?

The ASHA Code of Ethics emphasizes that the provision of speech-language pathology services should be based on the principle of offering services when a tangible benefit can be expected for the client. This means that an SLP must focus on whether the student is likely to benefit from ongoing therapy, rather than merely adhering to goals or meeting certain criteria without considering the student's needs.

When contemplating discharge, it is critical to evaluate if the student is making progress or if the therapies are helping them in a meaningful way. The guiding principle behind the decision to continue or discontinue services is ultimately about ensuring that the student receives the best possible benefit from the intervention provided by the SLP. This approach aligns with ethical practice, ensuring that decisions prioritize the well-being and improvement of the student.

While the other options might relate to the considerations for discharge or the effectiveness of services, they do not encapsulate the essence of ethical decision-making as mandated by ASHA. Continuous progress, parental requests, and the number of therapy sessions completed are important factors, but they should not overshadow the fundamental principle of guaranteeing that services provided are genuinely beneficial to the student.