PLAB Ethics & Communication

Question 1

What are the four pillars of medical ethics?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice

Answer

The four pillars of medical ethics — autonomy (patient choice), beneficence (doing good), non-maleficence (do no harm), and justice (fairness) — guide all medical decision-making.

Question 2

When can patient confidentiality be legally breached in the United States?

Accepted Answer

When required by law, such as reporting certain communicable diseases or suspected child abuse

Answer

Patient confidentiality may be legally breached when required by law (mandatory disease reporting, suspected child/elder abuse), when there is a serious risk to others, or with valid court orders.

Question 3

What is informed consent?

Accepted Answer

A process where patients receive adequate information to make voluntary decisions about their treatment

Answer

Informed consent is a process (not just a form) where patients receive information about diagnosis, treatment options, risks, benefits, and alternatives, enabling voluntary, informed decision-making.

Question 4

What is Gillick competence?

Accepted Answer

A legal concept where a minor under 16 can consent to treatment if they demonstrate sufficient understanding

Answer

Gillick competence (established in Gillick v West Norfolk, 1985) allows minors under 16 to consent to medical treatment if they demonstrate sufficient intelligence and understanding of the proposed treatment.

Question 5

How should a physician deliver bad news to a patient?

Accepted Answer

Using a structured approach like SPIKES: Setting, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Emotions, Strategy

Answer

The SPIKES protocol provides a structured approach: prepare the Setting, assess patient's Perception, get an Invitation to share, give Knowledge/information, address Emotions, and discuss Strategy/next steps.

PLAB - Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Practice Test

PLAB - Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Practice Test

PLAB Ethics & Communication