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Medical neglect — DCH MCQ

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HardSafeguardingMedical neglectDCH

A 10-year-old boy with asthma has frequent admissions because preventer inhalers are not collected. His parents repeatedly miss reviews despite transport support, and school reports he often has no inhaler. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: E — Medical neglect

Repeated failure to provide essential treatment for a chronic condition despite support can constitute medical neglect. Normal non-adherence does not adequately explain missing medicines, missed reviews and school reports of absent inhalers. The pearl is that chronic disease non-adherence in children may reflect unmet family needs or neglect.

Reference: NICE CG89; NICE NG245