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Suicide risk — DOccMed MCQ

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HardOH Ethics and ProfessionalismSuicide riskDOccMed

An employee tells occupational health about suicidal thoughts but asks that nothing is shared with anyone. He has a plan, access to means, and is due to work alone on a remote night shift. What is the most appropriate management?

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

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Correct answer: A — Prioritise immediate safety, seek urgent help and disclose proportionately if needed

Confidentiality is important but is not absolute where there is serious and imminent risk. The clinician should seek consent where possible, arrange urgent mental-health support and disclose the minimum necessary information if safety requires it. Lone remote night work would be unsafe pending urgent assessment.

Reference: GMC Confidentiality Guidance; FOM Ethics Guidance