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

What is the expected action of dental hygienists when they encounter a client’s refusal of treatment?

1. To force treatment upon the client

2. To respect and honor the client's decision

3. To ignore the refusal and continue as planned

4. To question the client’s judgment

The correct answer is: To respect and honor the client's decision

When a dental hygienist encounters a client's refusal of treatment, the ethical and professional standard is to respect and honor the client's decision. This aligns with the principle of autonomy in healthcare, which emphasizes that patients have the right to make informed choices about their own treatment. Healthcare providers must acknowledge that clients may refuse treatment for various reasons, including personal beliefs, past experiences, or concerns about the proposed procedures. Respecting a client's decision to refuse treatment is vital for maintaining trust and rapport in the therapist-client relationship. It also reinforces the importance of informed consent, where patients should be given all necessary information about their treatment options and the implications of refusing treatment. This approach ensures that patients feel empowered and respected in their choices, which is a fundamental aspect of ethical healthcare practice. In contrast, forcing treatment on a client, ignoring their refusal, or questioning their judgment would violate ethical standards and the principle of patient autonomy, potentially leading to a breakdown in the therapeutic relationship as well as legal and ethical implications for the dental hygienist.