PSI Professional Ethics

Question 1

What is the PSI Code of Conduct for Pharmacists?

Accepted Answer

A set of principles and standards published by the PSI that outline the ethical and professional conduct expected of all registered pharmacists in Ireland

Answer

An optional guideline with no legal standing

Answer

A code that only applies during inspections

Answer

A code only for newly qualified pharmacists

Question 2

What is the pharmacist's duty of confidentiality regarding patient information?

Accepted Answer

To protect all patient information and only disclose it with consent or when legally required, in accordance with GDPR and professional standards

Answer

Patient information can be discussed freely with anyone

Answer

Confidentiality only applies to medical records, not verbal information

Answer

Confidentiality does not apply in community pharmacies

Question 3

What ethical principle requires pharmacists to act in the best interest of the patient?

Accepted Answer

Beneficence — the duty to act in the patient's best interest and promote their welfare

Answer

Autonomy — the right to make decisions independently

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Justice — the fair distribution of resources

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Non-maleficence — the duty to do no harm

Question 4

How should a pharmacist handle a conflict of interest between commercial pressures and patient care?

Accepted Answer

Patient care and safety must always take priority over commercial or business interests

Answer

Commercial success should be the primary priority

Answer

Balance equally between commercial and patient interests

Answer

Let the pharmacy owner decide which takes priority

Question 5

What is 'conscientious objection' in pharmacy practice?

Accepted Answer

A pharmacist's right to decline providing certain services based on personal moral or religious beliefs, provided the patient is referred to another provider without delay

Answer

The right to refuse to serve any customer for any reason

Answer

An objection to working on certain days of the week

Answer

The right to refuse to stock any product the pharmacist disagrees with

Question 6

What is the pharmacist's ethical obligation regarding pharmaceutical company interactions?

Accepted Answer

To maintain professional independence, not allow commercial relationships to influence clinical decisions, and be transparent about any conflicts of interest

Answer

To promote whatever products pharmaceutical companies recommend

Answer

To only stock products from companies that offer the best incentives

Answer

Pharmacists have no restrictions on interactions with pharmaceutical companies