HCPC Professional Conduct & Ethics

Question 1

What are the four principles of biomedical ethics as described by Beauchamp and Childress?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice

Answer

Honesty, compassion, integrity, skill

Answer

Consent, confidentiality, competence, communication

Answer

Dignity, respect, fairness, equality

Question 2

A patient refuses a blood transfusion on religious grounds. They have capacity. What is the correct response?

Accepted Answer

Respect the refusal — a capacitous adult's right to refuse treatment is absolute

Answer

Override the refusal as the clinical team knows best

Answer

Seek a court order to proceed with the transfusion

Answer

Involve family members to change the patient's mind

Question 3

Which ethical principle is most relevant when a healthcare professional ensures resources are distributed fairly?

Accepted Answer

Justice

Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Beneficence

Answer

Non-maleficence

Question 4

A patient asks a healthcare professional to lie to their family about their diagnosis. What should the professional do?

Accepted Answer

Explain that they cannot lie but will support the patient in managing disclosure on their terms

Answer

Lie to the family as requested to preserve patient relationship

Answer

Tell the family the truth without the patient's knowledge

Answer

Refuse all further contact with the family

Question 5

What does 'duty of candour' require of HCPC registrants?

Accepted Answer

Being open, honest, and transparent with patients and employers when something goes wrong with care

Answer

Only reporting errors to the employer, not the patient

Answer

Candour is a managerial, not individual professional, obligation

Answer

Only apply when the patient specifically asks what went wrong

Question 6

A healthcare professional is personally opposed to abortion. What must they do when asked to assist in abortion care?

Accepted Answer

May exercise conscientious objection but must ensure the patient receives timely referral to a willing provider

Answer

May refuse and is not obliged to assist the patient further

Answer

Must assist regardless of personal beliefs

Answer

Must report the patient to the HCPC