DAY 2 — CASE 18: A patient with xerostomia (dry mouth) is presented with several treatment options by the dentist. The dentist respects the patient's choice after explaining all options. Which ethical principle is being followed?

Correct answer: C. Autonomy

• A. Justice involves fair, equitable treatment and distribution of resources.
• B. Veracity is the principle of honesty and truth-telling — presenting accurate information is veracity, but respecting the choice is autonomy.
• C. AUTONOMY is the principle of respecting the patient's right to self-determination — to make their own informed decisions about their health care after being fully informed of their options. When a dentist presents all treatment options and respects the patient's chosen treatment, this embodies autonomy.
• D. Beneficence means acting in the patient's best interest (doing good) — the dentist providing the options demonstrates beneficence, but the act of respecting the patient's choice specifically reflects autonomy.