Ethics & Law · single question
A patient with xerostomia is counseled on multiple management options by the dentist. Which ethical principle does this BEST demonstrate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Autonomy (respecting patient's right to informed decision-making)
- A. Veracity involves honesty and truth-telling — not specifically about presenting options for patient choice.
- B. Correct. Presenting options to the patient and respecting their right to choose among those options demonstrates AUTONOMY — the principle that patients have the right to self-determination and informed decision-making about their care.
- C. Justice concerns equitable distribution of care and resources.
- D. Beneficence is acting in the patient's best interest, but the specific act of presenting options for patient choice reflects autonomy.