Infection Control · single question
A dentist is NOT following CDC and OSHA infection control guidelines. Which bioethical principle is being violated?
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Correct answer: D. Non-maleficence
✓ D) Non-maleficence is violated when a dentist fails to follow infection control guidelines.
NON-MALEFICENCE = 'First, do no harm.' Failure to follow CDC/OSHA infection control guidelines (e.g., not sterilizing instruments, not using PPE, not following standard precautions) directly creates risk of HARM to patients through transmission of infectious diseases. This is a violation of non-maleficence. Beneficence = actively doing good. Autonomy = patient's right to choose. Veracity = truth-telling. Justice = fair treatment. Not sterilizing instruments = potential to HARM patients = non-maleficence violation.
NON-MALEFICENCE = 'First, do no harm.' Failure to follow CDC/OSHA infection control guidelines (e.g., not sterilizing instruments, not using PPE, not following standard precautions) directly creates risk of HARM to patients through transmission of infectious diseases. This is a violation of non-maleficence. Beneficence = actively doing good. Autonomy = patient's right to choose. Veracity = truth-telling. Justice = fair treatment. Not sterilizing instruments = potential to HARM patients = non-maleficence violation.
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