Children and Young People

Question 1

What is the age when young people can make their own decisions about their care?

Answer 1

• England, Wales and NI: 18

- Scotland: 16

Question 2

What is meant by children and young people?

Answer 2

• children - people who are probably not mature enough to make an important decision themselves
• young people - Those who are

Question 3

What does the clinician need to consider when looking at the best interests of a child?

Answer 3

• views of the child/young person
• views of parents,
• vews of others close to the child/young person
• cultural, religious or other beliefs of the child or parents
• views of other healthcare professionals providing care to the child.
• which choice will least restrict the childs future options

Question 4

What is Gillick competence?

Answer 4

any young person under 16 with capacity to make any relevant decision, with sufficient maturity is referred to as being ‘Gillick competent’

Question 5

Why is consent is often more easily accepted than refused?

Answer 5

Lock and Key analogy - Doctor only needs 1 key to unlock consent. 3 Potential keys exist in the case of a mature minor;

• mature minor
• parents
• courts

Question 6

What ethical issue is there surrounding living organ donation of a person under the age of 16?

Answer 6

difficult to obtain informed consent

Question 7

What is an ethical issue surrounding euthanasia of children over the age of 12?

Answer 7

• children over the age of 12 could request euthanasia with permission of their parents
• possible cohersion ?

Question 8

What is an ethical issue surrounding clinical research with minors?

Answer 8

should parents allow their child to participate if it involves discomfort/distress to child?