Ethics & Law · single question
A dentist refuses to prescribe hydrocodone to a patient with known drug abuse. Which ethical principle is being followed?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Non-maleficence
Avoiding patient harm by not feeding addiction = non-maleficence.
- A. Autonomy is the patient's right to choose; declining to harm is a different principle.
- B. Correct. 'Do no harm' — withholding an inappropriate opioid to avoid fueling addiction is non-maleficence.
- C. Veracity is truthfulness, not the issue here.