Making Professional Judgements

Question 1

What is the duty of care?

Answer 1

Ensuring someone else does not suffer any unreasonable harm or loss, within your power

Question 2

What is the legal test of duty of care? (4)

Answer 2

There must be harm caused
The harm must have been foreseeable
There must be a sufficiently proximate relationship between the parties = e.g. face to face advice
It must be just and reasonable to impose such a duty = a case to answer

Question 3

What are the 4 basic biomedical principles?

Answer 3

1. Non-Maleficence
2. Beneficence
3. Autonomy
4. Justice

Question 4

Describe non-maleficence (3)

Answer 4

Avoid harm
Justification for acts and omissions (why have/haven’t acted)
Withholding/withdrawing treatment is not benefiting the patient e.g. life suppor

Question 5

Describe beneficience (3)

Answer 5

Promote the well being of others
Encompasses medical paternalism (some medical decisions are best left in the hands of the medical professionals)
Acting without consent or over-riding a person’s wishes in order to benefit the patient or prevent harm

Question 6

Describe autonomy (3)

Answer 6

Self-determination
An individual’s action should be the result of their own choices
Competent adult’s informed decision to refuse treatment supersedes offer of treatment

Question 7

Describe justice (3)

Answer 7

Treat similar cases in similar ways

Same respect to patients in different circumstances Distribute health care resources fairly

Question 8

List 3 issues with the basic biomedical principles

Answer 8

1. Determining which principles apply in the case
2. Interpreting the principles
3. Weighing the different principles, especially where the principles conflict

Question 9

List the 7 GPhC principles

Answer 9

1. Make patients your first concern
2. Use professional judgement in the interest of patients and the pubic
3. Show respect for others
4. Encourage patients and the public to participate in decisions about their care
5. Develop your professional knowledge and competence
6. Be honest and trustworthy
7. Take responsibility for your working practices

Question 10

Outline the decision making framework (7)

Answer 10

Recognise moral issue 
Gather all relevant information
Identify type of ethical problem 
Analyse problem 
Explore solutions 
Make decision 
Assess and reflect