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Confidentiality and serious harm — MRCPCH TAS MCQ

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HardEthics, law and research governanceConfidentiality and serious harmMRCPCH TAS

A 14-year-old discloses injecting drug use and says an adult supplier is pressuring him to recruit younger pupils. He refuses permission to share information. What is the most appropriate ethical justification for disclosure?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Disclosure to prevent serious harm or exploitation

Confidentiality can be breached when necessary to protect the young person or others from serious harm, exploitation or safeguarding risk. Adolescents do have confidentiality rights when competent, so disclosure needs a clear justification. The pearl is to share proportionate information with appropriate safeguarding professionals and explain the decision where safe.

Reference: GMC 0-18 years guidance; RCPCH safeguarding principles; RCPCH Theory examination syllabi