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Informed consent — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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EasyEthics & ProfessionalismInformed consentMCCQE Part 1

50-year-old man presents with scheduled for colonoscopy. He says he signed the form but does not know the risks or alternatives. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: C — Pause and provide informed consent discussion before proceeding

Pause and provide informed consent discussion before proceeding is best because a signature alone is not valid informed consent. Breach confidentiality broadly without legal basis is suboptimal because disclosure must be limited to what is legally authorised or clinically necessary; Let family preference override a capable patient is suboptimal because capable patients direct their own care; Refuse to discuss the issue and document nothing is suboptimal because professional practice requires communication and clear documentation; Delay a mandatory report until certainty is absolute is suboptimal because statutory reporting thresholds are often suspicion or reasonable belief, not proof. Consent requires capacity, voluntariness and adequate information.

Reference: CMPA consent guidance