Ethics & Law · patient case question
A patient decides to have his teeth extracted. Which ethical principle does the dentist follow by honouring this?
Patient case: Two ethics questions on the same patient
Scenario: A patient makes decisions about his own care.
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Autonomy
- A. Correct. AUTONOMY — 'self-governance' — is the patient's right to make decisions about their own body and treatment, provided they have decision-making capacity and are properly informed. Honouring the patient's informed choice, even when the dentist would recommend otherwise, respects autonomy.
- B. Non-maleficence is the duty to DO NO HARM — knowing one's limits, keeping skills current, referring when appropriate.
- C. Justice is fairness in the delivery of care and non-discrimination in patient selection.
- D. Beneficence is the duty to act for the patient's BENEFIT — promoting their welfare and providing competent, timely care.