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Duty of candour after medication error — SCE Acute Medicine MCQ

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ModeratePerioperative Medicine, End-of-Life Care and Patient SafetyDuty of candour after medication errorSCE Acute Medicine

A 57-year-old woman is assessed on the acute medical unit. She received another patient's insulin and required intravenous glucose. She has recovered and asks what happened. Initial assessment includes relevant observations, bedside tests and urgent blood results. What would you advise this patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Give a factual apology and explain the planned investigation

The professional duty of candour requires prompt, honest disclosure of what happened, a sincere apology, explanation of known consequences and treatment, and a description of investigation and prevention steps. Disclosure is not postponed until the investigation finishes, and an apology is not an admission of legal liability.

Reference: https://www.gmc-uk.org/professional-standards/ethical-hub/the-professional-duty-of-candour