Which GDC standard emphasizes respect for patient confidentiality?

• A. Put patients' interests first.
• B. Respect patient confidentiality.
• C. Work with others to deliver safe care.
• D. Maintain and develop professional knowledge.

Answer: (B)

Confidentiality is all about protecting patient information and sharing it only with those who need to know for the patient’s care, and with appropriate consent or as required by law. In dental nursing, this means handling records securely, only discussing patient details in private, using secure systems, and complying with data protection rules. This emphasis on privacy builds trust, showing patients that their sensitive information will not be disclosed unnecessarily. It’s distinct from putting patients’ interests first (which focuses on their welfare and safety), working with others to deliver safe care (teamwork and coordination), and maintaining and developing professional knowledge (ongoing learning and competence). So the standard that emphasizes respect for patient confidentiality is the one centered on privacy and discretion with patient information.