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

What does the concept of beneficence require from healthcare professionals?

1. To maximize harm to ensure safety

2. To respect only the client’s financial abilities

3. To act in ways that benefit others

4. To focus solely on their own interests

The correct answer is: To act in ways that benefit others

The concept of beneficence in healthcare ethics emphasizes the obligation of healthcare professionals to act in ways that promote the well-being of their patients and contribute positively to their health. It requires professionals to take actions that are in the best interest of those they serve, ensuring that the benefits of their interventions outweigh any potential harm. This principle underscores a commitment to the welfare of clients, guiding practitioners to make decisions that enhance health outcomes and support their patients' overall quality of life. In contrast, other options present principles that do not align with beneficence. Maximizing harm contradicts the very essence of healthcare, which is to heal rather than injure. Focusing exclusively on a client's financial situation limits the broader obligation to promote health, and concentrating on personal interests detracts from the essential responsibility healthcare providers have to prioritize patient welfare above all.