Ethics & Law

Question 1

Age that a child cannot consent to sex

Answer 1

< 13

Question 2

If child is 13 or older and deemed to be gillick competent, when is it necessary to disclose sexual activity to a 3rd party

Answer 2

• large gap in age
• position of trust
• sexual activity obtained under duress
• use of drugs or alcohol to influence the child

Question 3

3 sets of circumstances when treatment limitation can be considered

Answer 3

1. when life is limited in quantity
2. when life is limited in quality
3. informed competent refusal of treatment

Question 4

‘when life is limited in quantity’ - what does this encompass

Answer 4

If treatment is unable or unlikely to prolong life significantly it may not be in the child’s best interests to provide it

• brain stem death
• imminent death
• inevitable death

Question 5

‘when life is limited in quality’ - what does this encompass

Answer 5

Where treatment may be able to prolong life significantly but won’t alleviate the burdens associated with illness or treatment itself

• burdens of treatment
• burdens of the child’s underlying condition
• lack of ability to benefit