Professional Conduct & Ethics Flashcards

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

Answer: Autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice

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).

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

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

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.

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

Answer: Justice

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

Conscientious objection to legal procedures is recognised but subject to conditions: the professional must not abandon the patient and must ensure they receive timely access to care via referral.