HESI General Chairside Assisting Practice Exam

Which principle of the American Dental Association (ADA) ethics addresses the right to confidentiality?

1. Autonomy

2. Beneficence

3. Justice

4. Nonmaleficence

The correct answer is: Autonomy

Autonomy is the principle that addresses the right to confidentiality within the American Dental Association (ADA) ethics framework. This principle recognizes the importance of patients having control over their own health information and the right to make informed decisions regarding their treatment. Respecting a patient's autonomy entails safeguarding their personal health data and ensuring that it is disclosed only with their consent. Maintaining confidentiality not only fosters trust in the patient-provider relationship but also empowers patients to participate actively in their care without fear of their information being improperly shared. The other principles play important roles in ethical practice, but they do not specifically focus on confidentiality. Beneficence relates to promoting the well-being of patients, justice refers to fairness in treatment and resource allocation, and nonmaleficence emphasizes the obligation to do no harm. While these principles are essential in providing ethical healthcare, it is autonomy that directly pertains to the confidentiality of patient information.