Understanding NHS Ethical Principles

What is the primary purpose of the NHS principles of ethical practice?

• To ensure financial efficiency in healthcare

• To guide healthcare professionals in making ethical decisions

• To promote private healthcare services

• To increase the number of healthcare facilities

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of the NHS principles of ethical practice is to guide healthcare professionals in making ethical decisions, ensuring that patient care is prioritized and aligned with moral standards.

Which of the following is a key principle of ethical practice in the NHS?

• Confidentiality

• Profit maximisation

• Political neutrality

• Technological advancement

Answer explanation

Confidentiality is a key principle of ethical practice in the NHS, ensuring that patient information is protected and only shared with authorized individuals, which fosters trust and respect in healthcare.

The principle of 'autonomy' in NHS ethical practice refers to:

• The right of healthcare professionals to make decisions for patients

• The right of patients to make informed decisions about their own care

• The independence of NHS from government policies

• The ability of NHS to operate without external funding

Answer explanation

The principle of 'autonomy' emphasizes the right of patients to make informed decisions about their own care, ensuring they have control over their treatment options.

Which principle ensures that NHS resources are used fairly and equitably?

• Justice

• Beneficence

• Non-maleficence

• Autonomy

Answer explanation

The principle of Justice ensures that NHS resources are allocated fairly and equitably among patients, promoting fairness in healthcare access and treatment. This principle is essential for maintaining trust in the healthcare system.

The principle of 'beneficence' in NHS ethical practice means:

• Doing no harm to patients

• Acting in the best interest of the patient

• Ensuring patient confidentiality

• Providing equal access to all

Answer explanation

The principle of 'beneficence' emphasizes acting in the best interest of the patient, ensuring that healthcare providers prioritize patient welfare and promote positive health outcomes.

Which principle is concerned with avoiding harm to patients?

• Justice

• Autonomy

• Non-maleficence

• Beneficence

Answer explanation

The principle of non-maleficence specifically focuses on avoiding harm to patients. It emphasizes the obligation of healthcare providers to not inflict harm intentionally, making it the correct choice in this context.

In the context of NHS ethical practice, what does 'informed consent' mean?

• Patients are informed about the costs of their treatment

• Patients agree to treatment after understanding the risks and benefits

• Doctors inform patients about their qualifications

• Patients are informed about hospital policies

Answer explanation

Informed consent means that patients agree to treatment after fully understanding the associated risks and benefits, ensuring they make an educated decision about their healthcare.

Which of the following is NOT a principle of ethical practice in the NHS?

• Transparency

• Accountability

• Profitability

• Respect for persons

Answer explanation

Profitability is not a principle of ethical practice in the NHS, which focuses on transparency, accountability, and respect for persons, prioritizing patient care over profit.

The principle of 'confidentiality' in NHS ethical practice ensures:

• Patient information is shared with all healthcare staff

• Patient information is kept private and only shared with authorised personnel

• Patient information is published for research purposes

• Patient information is stored indefinitely

Answer explanation

The principle of 'confidentiality' in NHS ethical practice ensures that patient information is kept private and only shared with authorised personnel, protecting patient privacy and trust.

Which principle of NHS ethical practice involves treating all patients with dignity and respect?

• Justice

• Beneficence

• Respect for persons

• Non-maleficence

Answer explanation

The principle of 'Respect for persons' emphasizes treating all patients with dignity and respect, recognizing their autonomy and rights. This principle is fundamental in ensuring ethical interactions in healthcare.