P
r
Ethical
n
Cc
in Clinical Decision Making
One of the essential
characteristics ofa
profession is the pro-
motion of a code of
ethics. The major
purpose of a code of
G _ cthics is to bind the
‘members of the group
together by expressing
their goals and aspirations as well as defining
expected standards of behavior. It is a guide-
line for members of the professional group and
itis used to assist in self regulation, another as-
pect of a true profession. A code, such as the
Code of Ethics for Dental Hygiene, is the con-
‘tract the profession makes with society outlin-
ing the standards it will adhere to and uphold.
“Most codes of ethics in health care are based on
normative ethical principles and these prin-