For your ethical dilemma paper, please consider one of these questions case studies. Please evaluate which of these basic ethical principles (autonomy, nonmaleficience, beneficence, justice, veracity, or confidence) are in conflict.
1. A new patient comes into the dental office for a new patient exam. Upon receiving the patient to the treatment room, the dental assistant explains to the patient that they will be taking a full set of x-rays before the doctor comes in to complete dental charting and evaluation of dental treatment needs. The patient then states, I do not want any x-rays. The dental assistant explains to the patient that the x-rays are an important part of the dental assessment and they are needed to assess disease and condition of the teeth. The assistant states, It would be like driving blind, treating you without them. The doctor cannot see everything with just a clinical exam. The patient still insists they will not have the x-rays and further states I guess I will have to take my chances.

Should the doctor still see the new patient? Should the doctor continue the appointment without the x-rays, since the patient has been informed? What about future treatment? What are the ethical principles that are in conflict?

2. Susan, a patient of Dr. Jones, has just been seen for an emergency appointment to have tooth #30 extracted due to a fractured root. Susan wants to know how will they be replacing the extracted tooth and stresses her concerns about finances and esthetics. The dentist decides to present Susan with only one option, a bridge. The dentist does not give the other options, which are to do nothing and leave the space open, (as he does not believe this to be a good option) and placement of a dental implant, (due to the high cost factor).

Is it ethically acceptable for the doctor to only share one of several treatment options? What are ethical principles that are in conflict?

3. Carol, the lead dental assistant at a popular local pediatric office, has taken the day off to volunteer at her sons school for Childrens Dental Month. Several professional dental volunteers from the community are coming together to offer free dental wellness screenings, including dental assisting and dental hygiene students. As one of the students approaches the screening area, Carol recognizes the student from her dental office. She is keenly aware of the medical history of this child due to a diagnosis of HIV and HEP C, among many other medical complications. For todays dental screenings, students parents only needed to give parental consent and a thorough medical history was not required.
Should Carol warn the dental assistant student and attending doctor of the childs diagnoses? What ethical principles are at play here?

4. Dr. Murphy is a well-known prosthodontist (cosmetic) dentist in the area. He is known for his exceptional work and is well-liked by his patients, so much so, that today he is seeing a new referral from one of his regular and high spending patients. Brian presents with an esthetically and clinically sound dentition. There are no concerns on the dental x-rays. Dr. Murphy is surprised to learn the reason for Brians visit. Brian would like to have all of his anterior (front) teeth shaved into the shape of his canine teeth and then covered with gold crowns as part of a ritual tradition for a new cult his is in. Brian expresses that he knows this is non-traditional dentistry, and he is well aware it is irreversible, but still insists he would like to have this done and it will not cause him any significant harm. He wraps up by saying, If you wont do it, I will find a dentist who will. I have just heard that you are the best. Dr. Murphy does not want to let his referring patient down.
Dr. Murphy knows that this is far outside the standard of care for dentistry. Otherwise healthy teeth are harmed and the procedure is irreversible. What ethical principles are in conflict in this scenario?