PLAB 2 GMC Good Medical Practice & Professional Standards 2

Question 1

A doctor is asked to complete a sick note for a patient they have not examined. The patient states they are too unwell to attend the surgery. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Offer a telephone or video consultation to assess the patient before completing any documentation

Answer

GMC Good Medical Practice requires that clinical documentation must be based on an assessment of the patient; a remote consultation satisfies this requirement when an in-person visit is not possible.

Question 2

Under GMC guidance, when is a doctor permitted to breach patient confidentiality without consent?

Accepted Answer

When disclosure is required by law, necessary to prevent serious harm to the patient or others, or in the public interest as defined by law

Answer

GMC guidance permits breach of confidentiality without consent in specific circumstances: legal obligation, serious risk of harm to the patient or third parties, or a clear public interest justification.

Question 3

A doctor becomes aware that they are experiencing significant stress and burnout that is affecting their ability to concentrate during clinical duties. What should they do first?

Accepted Answer

Seek support from their own GP or occupational health and consider whether their fitness to practise is affected

Answer

GMC guidance requires doctors to look after their own health and wellbeing and to seek help when needed, and to consider whether their health is affecting their ability to practise safely.

Question 4

What is the GMC's position on a doctor expressing personal beliefs to patients?

Accepted Answer

Doctors may hold personal beliefs but must not impose them on patients or let them affect the care they provide

Answer

GMC guidance states that while doctors may hold personal beliefs, these must not prejudice patient care, and when conscientious objection applies, doctors must refer patients to alternative providers.

Question 5

A doctor is asked to provide a reference for a former colleague who was subject to a conduct investigation that was ultimately not proven. What should the reference include?

Accepted Answer

The reference should be factually accurate, honest and not misleading, including relevant information about the investigation if directly relevant to the role

Answer

GMC guidance requires references to be honest, accurate and not misleading; omitting relevant factual information that could affect patient safety is a breach of professional standards.

PLAB 2 Practice Test

PLAB 2 Practice Test

PLAB 2 GMC Good Medical Practice & Professional Standards 2