RDH LAW AND ETHICS EXAM 2024-2025
Autonomy - Answer An autonomous individual has control over his or her own
actions, behaviors, and inner existence (self-determination). Examples include
plans, ambitions, convictions, and beliefs. People are allowed to behave however
they want as long as it does not damage others.
Informed Consent - ANSWER A patient's acceptance (or refusal) of a course of
treatment based on information offered by a healthcare provider; an ethical and
legal factor. Implied consent is nonverbal/nonwritten. Expressed consent is an oral
agreement; written consent is a documented agreement. Exceptions include
emergencies, mental illnesses, legal requirements, and incompetent patients.
Tolerance - Answer Dentists face new challenges as they practice in a more
diversified cultural and ethnic environment. These variances may contradict
conventional views about pain, acceptable function, and esthetics. Tolerance of
diversity necessitates dentists acknowledging the existence of these disparities and
attempting to comprehend how these variations may influence patient choices and
treatment.
Compassion - Answer Compassion necessitates care and the ability to empathize
with the patient's entire health. Dental practice frequently involves the relief of pain
and suffering. A caring, empathetic dentist demonstrates acts of kindness and has a
sympathetic ear for the patient.
Veracity - Answer Telling the truth, not lying to the patient. For example, partial
disclosure may result in false hopes; inadequate information: not informing the
patient about less expensive treatment options may cause financial or practical
problems for the patient; hiding the truth = lost confidence.
Integrity - Answer Integrity compels the dentist to act with integrity and decency.
Dentists who operate with integrity proclaim key beliefs and realize when words,
actions, or intentions contradict their principles and conscience. Professional
integrity obligates dentists to uphold the Codes of Ethics of their respective
Autonomy - Answer An autonomous individual has control over his or her own
actions, behaviors, and inner existence (self-determination). Examples include
plans, ambitions, convictions, and beliefs. People are allowed to behave however
they want as long as it does not damage others.
Informed Consent - ANSWER A patient's acceptance (or refusal) of a course of
treatment based on information offered by a healthcare provider; an ethical and
legal factor. Implied consent is nonverbal/nonwritten. Expressed consent is an oral
agreement; written consent is a documented agreement. Exceptions include
emergencies, mental illnesses, legal requirements, and incompetent patients.
Tolerance - Answer Dentists face new challenges as they practice in a more
diversified cultural and ethnic environment. These variances may contradict
conventional views about pain, acceptable function, and esthetics. Tolerance of
diversity necessitates dentists acknowledging the existence of these disparities and
attempting to comprehend how these variations may influence patient choices and
treatment.
Compassion - Answer Compassion necessitates care and the ability to empathize
with the patient's entire health. Dental practice frequently involves the relief of pain
and suffering. A caring, empathetic dentist demonstrates acts of kindness and has a
sympathetic ear for the patient.
Veracity - Answer Telling the truth, not lying to the patient. For example, partial
disclosure may result in false hopes; inadequate information: not informing the
patient about less expensive treatment options may cause financial or practical
problems for the patient; hiding the truth = lost confidence.
Integrity - Answer Integrity compels the dentist to act with integrity and decency.
Dentists who operate with integrity proclaim key beliefs and realize when words,
actions, or intentions contradict their principles and conscience. Professional
integrity obligates dentists to uphold the Codes of Ethics of their respective