Ethics & Law · single question
A dentist offers a patient treatment options for xerostomia to improve comfort and oral function. This demonstrates which ethical principle?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Autonomy
- A. Correct (keyed). Presenting OPTIONS so the patient can choose respects patient autonomy.
- B. Beneficence (acting for the patient's benefit) is also reflected in 'improve comfort,' a reasonable alternative reading.
- C. Justice concerns fairness across patients.
- D. Veracity concerns truth-telling.
Note: Beneficence is an arguable alternative since the aim is to improve comfort/function; the keyed answer is autonomy (offering choices).