RDA Law and Ethics Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

Respecting a patient's right to decide treatment options is a crucial element of patient autonomy. This principle emphasizes that patients have the right to understand their health conditions and the associated treatment options, allowing them to make informed decisions about their care. A Registered Dental Assistant plays an essential role in supporting this autonomy by ensuring patients are provided with clear and comprehensive information. This practice fosters a trusting relationship and encourages active participation in their own healthcare decisions, which is fundamental in the dental field.

In the context of the other options, disregarding patient decisions undermines their autonomy and could lead to ethical and legal issues. Documenting patient decisions is important, but it is not sufficient to respect autonomy without also considering the nature and implications of those decisions. While maintaining personal opinions can be important for self-reflection, it should never interfere with the respect and support offered to patients regarding their treatment choices.