MSRA Professional Dilemmas

Question 1

A colleague confides that they have been drinking alcohol before clinical shifts. What is the most appropriate initial action?

Accepted Answer

Express concern to the colleague and encourage them to seek help, while reporting to your clinical supervisor

Answer

Patient safety is paramount. The initial step is expressing concern directly while also reporting to your supervisor or clinical lead, as patient safety cannot be compromised. GMC referral may follow if the issue isn't addressed.

Question 2

A patient's family member asks you not to tell the patient about their terminal diagnosis. What should you do?

Accepted Answer

Explore the family's concerns but explain that the patient has the right to know their diagnosis if they wish

Answer

While understanding family concerns is important, patients have the right to know their diagnosis (GMC guidance on consent). Explore what the patient wants to know and share information at an appropriate pace, respecting patient autonomy.

Question 3

You notice a senior colleague making a prescribing error. What is the most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Raise the concern politely with the colleague directly and ensure the error is corrected

Answer

Patient safety requires addressing the error. Speaking directly to the colleague is appropriate first, allowing them to correct it. If the error isn't corrected or there's a pattern, escalation to a supervisor is necessary.

Question 4

A patient refuses a blood transfusion on religious grounds despite being severely anemic. What is the correct approach?

Accepted Answer

Respect their decision after ensuring they have capacity and understand the risks, and explore alternative treatments

Answer

A competent adult has the right to refuse treatment, even if it may lead to death. Ensure the patient has capacity, provide full information about risks, document the refusal, and explore alternative management options.

Question 5

You are asked to see more patients than you feel is safe during an on-call shift. What should you do?

Accepted Answer

Raise your concerns with the on-call senior and document your concerns about patient safety

Answer

You have a duty to raise concerns about patient safety. Escalate to the on-call senior, clinical supervisor, or site manager, documenting your concerns. Never simply abandon patients or stay silent about unsafe conditions.

MSRA Exam (Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment) Practice Test

MSRA Exam (Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment) Practice Test

MSRA Professional Dilemmas