Professional
Professional
The Professional domain tests trustworthiness: ethics, boundaries, confidentiality, probity, and legal duties under pressure.
Core rules
- Apply the four principles: autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice; justify decisions transparently.
- Confidentiality is not absolute. Disclose only need-to-know information when there is serious risk, legal obligation, or safeguarding concern; record the reasoning.
- Maintain boundaries: no sexual or exploitative relationships, careful with gifts, dual roles, social media, and self-disclosure.
- Declare conflicts of interest with industry, research, and teaching; do not accept inducements that affect prescribing.
- Recognise impairment in yourself and colleagues: burnout, substance use, illness; seek help and avoid self-prescription.
- Use respectful language and avoid stigma; document objectively.
Worked example
A patient gives you an expensive watch after discharge. Reasoning: accept that it carries meaning, but decline because it risks a dual relationship and perceived favouritism. Explore the patient's gratitude or worry, document the discussion, and follow local gift policy. Do not accept it privately.
Traps
- Casual confidentiality breaches in corridors or on WhatsApp.
- Blurring boundaries by sharing personal problems.
- Not declaring a conflict of interest.
- Using judgemental labels such as manipulative or non-compliant.