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Gillick competence — MRCPCH FOP MCQ

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ModerateEthics, consent and communicationGillick competenceMRCPCH FOP

A 15-year-old girl requests contraception and says she does not want her parents informed. She understands benefits, risks and alternatives, and there is no evidence of coercion or exploitation. What is the most appropriate management?

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

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Correct answer: A — Assess competence, encourage parental involvement and provide confidential care

A competent young person may consent to contraception, while the clinician should encourage parental involvement and assess safeguarding risks. Informing parents without justification would breach confidentiality. Automatic police contact is not required when there are no exploitation concerns. The pearl is that confidentiality and safeguarding are assessed together, not treated as opposites.

Reference: GMC 0-18 years guidance; Fraser/Gillick principles