Ethics and Autonomy

Core Values in Healthcare

• Autonomy is demonstrated when individuals have the right to decide for themselves what actions they will undertake, even if it seems foolish to others.
• Cultural Competence involves understanding and respecting the differences in culture and ethnicity that may affect patient choices and treatment.
• Veracity emphasizes the importance of truth telling and honesty in all relationships, including healthcare interactions.

Code of Ethics in Dentistry

• The California Dental Association code of ethics emphasizes the duty to be fair in dealing with patients, colleagues, and society, which is a principle of justice.

Professional Development

• Professionals have a duty to keep their knowledge and skills current, which is a principle of lifelong learning.

Ethical Principles

• The ethical principle of justice is violated when employees are treated unfairly in terms of compensation, work hours, and benefits.

Licensing Exam

• If a potential licensee is witnessed copying or removing the licensing exam from the testing site, it is a violation of the testing rules and may result in disqualification.

Competence in Dental Hygiene

• Competence in dental hygiene practice includes all aspects of patient care, except for diagnosis.

Professionalism in Dental Hygiene

• Professionalism in dental hygiene practice includes all aspects of patient care, except for sales and marketing.

Oral Prophylaxis

• The purpose of oral prophylaxis in dental hygiene practice is to prevent oral diseases and promote oral health.

Scope of Dental Hygienist Practice

• The scope of a dental hygienist does not include orthodontic treatment.