SJT Ethics Flashcards
Should medical students disclose bad news to patients if they haven’t been instructed to do so?
No, medical students should not disclose bad news as they should recognize the limitations of their expertise.
What should a medical student say to a patient when they are unsure about the patient’s symptoms or diagnosis?
The medical student should inform the patient that the doctor will be there shortly to discuss symptoms and other concerns rather than trying to explain everything themselves.
Is it appropriate to make a statement where only part of it is correct?
No, if half of a statement is correct but the other half isn’t, it is inappropriate and not awful.
What should a medical student do if they are asked to perform a task but feel nervous and want to consult a senior doctor?
It is appropriate but not ideal for a medical student to seek guidance from a senior doctor. They should ideally show resilience and complete tasks within their realm of ability.
Is it appropriate to give a patient false hope?
No, it is very inappropriate to give patients false hope.
Should medical students contradict or undermine the comments made by senior doctors?
No, medical students should not undermine the comments made by senior doctors.
What should a medical student do if they are unable to answer a patient’s question due to restrictions?
It is appropriate but not ideal for a medical student to tell the patient they cannot answer the question, but they should do so nicely and empathetically.
What could happen if a medical student states that a senior doctor needs to do something for them?
The senior doctor could take offense if a medical student states that they need to do something for them.
What should medical students do if they cannot perform a task?
Medical students should apologize and provide a reason why they cannot perform the task.
How important is it to consider if an action is illegal?
It is very important to consider if something is illegal.
How important is it to consider if an action is against guidelines?
It is very important to consider if something is against guidelines.
What should be done if a patient makes a complaint?
Action must be taken if a patient makes a complaint.
Is it appropriate for doctors or medical students to befriend patients on social media?
No, it is inappropriate for doctors or medical students to befriend patients, even on social media.
How should one respond when a patient is angry?
It is not advisable to place blame on an angry patient as it may inflame the situation.
How important is it to adhere to university policy?
University policy must always be adhered to.
What is the response when there is dishonesty, rule-breaking, or compromising of patient care?
Such actions are always very inappropriate and unacceptable.
Should you do anything that undermines public confidence in medicine?
No, you should never do anything that undermines the public’s confidence in medicine.
How important is it to maintain patient confidentiality?
It is always important to maintain confidentiality.
How should you handle problems within a team?
Address problems at a lower level first by talking to the person involved before approaching a superior.
What is the top priority in medical practice?
Patient health and safety always come first.
Is it appropriate to apologize on behalf of someone else?
No, you should not apologize on someone else’s behalf.
When should medical students seek advice from seniors?
Seeking advice from seniors is almost always the best course of action.