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

The four principles (principlism) form the foundational framework for healthcare ethics: autonomy (patient self-determination), beneficence (doing good), non-maleficence (avoiding harm), and justice (fairness in resource allocation).

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

Under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and common law, a competent adult has an absolute right to refuse any medical treatment, even if that refusal leads to death. Healthcare professionals must respect this.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Justice

Answer

Justice in healthcare ethics refers to the fair distribution of limited resources, equal treatment regardless of personal characteristics, and ensuring systems serve all patients equitably.

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

HCPC standards require honesty and integrity. A professional cannot lie to third parties. However, they can and should support the patient in deciding how, when, and what to disclose to 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

The professional duty of candour (embedded in HCPC standards) requires registrants to be open and honest with patients when care goes wrong, including acknowledging the error and offering a sincere apology.

HCPC Registration Practice Test

HCPC Registration Practice Test

HCPC Professional Conduct & Ethics