Consent 16-17 Emergency — FRCA Final MCQ

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ModerateMedicolegal & EthicsConsent 16-17 EmergencyFRCA Final

17-year-old girl needs emergency appendicectomy. Parents uncontactable. She understands risks/benefits. Can she consent?

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Correct answer: D — Yes — at 16+ can consent under Family Law Reform Act 1969

Family Law Reform Act 1969 §8: 16-17 year olds can consent to treatment. Consent as effective as adult's, no parental authority needed. Distinct from Gillick (for under-16s). At 17 with capacity and understanding, valid consent.

Reference: Family Law Reform Act – 1969; GMC – 2024 – Consent