Core Values

Introduction

Core values are the values that are central to a profession’s code of ethics. In this module, core values and additional ethical principles will be examined. Also included in this module is the concept of the protection of health information, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

Dental hygienists should have a thorough understanding of the core values that guide the ethics in the profession of dental hygiene. Dental hygienists should also have knowledge of how these core values are integrated in documents such as the patients’ Bill of Rights and other documents. The understanding of core values is fundamental to the study of ethics.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

  • Define the terms autonomy, confidentiality,societal trust, non-maleficence, beneficence, justice, veracity, fidelity, paternalism, and utility.
  • Compare the ethical principles found in codes of ethics, informed consent, patients' bills of rights, and other documents related to patient care.
  • Identify the ethical principles used in health care for framing ethical problems and questions.

Readings & Resources

Required textbook reading:  (Chapter #2, pp. 16-29).  Ethics, Jurisprudence, and Practice Management in Dental Hygiene, Vickie Kimbrough-Walls & Charla Lautar, 3rd Edition.
Dental Hygiene Ethics Flash-Cards

Assignments and Activities

  • Post to the Module 3 Group Discussion Board.
  • Complete the Module 3 Reflective Assignment.
  • Complete the Module 3 Quiz.
 

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