Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What does the concept of integrity require from a dentist?

1. To compete aggressively for patient retention

2. To behave with honor and decency

3. To maximize revenue through aggressive marketing

4. To follow financial incentives over ethical guidelines

The correct answer is: To behave with honor and decency

The concept of integrity is fundamentally rooted in ethical behavior, which involves acting in a manner that is honorable, trustworthy, and respectful. When a dentist upholds integrity, they prioritize the welfare of their patients and maintain a high standard of ethics in all their professional interactions. This includes honesty in communication, providing appropriate care without conflicts of interest, and adhering strictly to ethical guidelines rather than solely focusing on financial gain. Behaving with honor and decency is essential in the healthcare profession, as it fosters trust between a dentist and their patients. This trust is crucial for effective treatment and patient satisfaction, as patients need to believe that their healthcare provider puts their health and well-being first. Additionally, integrity enhances the reputation of the dental profession as a whole, contributing to a culture of care and professionalism. In contrast, options that involve aggressive competition for patient retention or prioritizing financial incentives over ethical guidelines compromise the integrity of the profession and can lead to unethical practices that ultimately harm patient care. Therefore, the focus on behaving with honor and decency captures the essence of integrity required from a dentist.