NMC Code, ethics, legal frameworks, professional accountability
In any question where the NMC Code conflicts with a patient\
Prioritise people · Practise effectively · Preserve safety · Promote professionalism and trust. Every CBT question is framed within one of these themes.
Legal duty to be open and honest when care goes wrong. Must include: an apology, a truthful account, and a plan to prevent recurrence. Applies to all registrants — not just managers.
Must be voluntary, informed and given by a person with capacity. Can be verbal, written or implied. Patients can withdraw consent at any time.
Five principles: (1) Presume capacity (2) Support decision-making (3) Respect unwise decisions (4) Best interest if no capacity (5) Least restrictive option.
Under-16s may consent if they demonstrate sufficient understanding. Fraser guidelines specifically apply to contraception advice.
Data minimisation, purpose limitation, accuracy, security. The eight Caldicott Principles govern patient data in the NHS. Share on a need-to-know basis only.
Never act outside your competence. You are accountable for your own actions. If uncertain, seek supervision before proceeding.
You can delegate a task but you cannot delegate accountability. The person you delegate to must have the competence and training for the task.