By MedicForest · Reviewed
Understand the topic
The four familiar principles are autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice: respecting informed decisions, promoting benefit, considering harm and treating people fairly. They help organise reasoning but do not automatically produce an answer. Professional guidance, the law, context and your role also matter.
How to discuss it in Med interview
Clarify the facts and identify any immediate danger. Consider the patient's wishes, who else is affected and what information is missing. Compare realistic options and their consequences. State what you would do next, why it is proportionate and who you would ask for help. In situational judgement, prioritise safety, honesty and respectful escalation over protecting somebody's reputation.
Put it into words
If a patient declines a recommended intervention, first explore their reasons and whether they have enough accessible information to decide. Do not assume disagreement means a lack of capacity. Explain that you would involve the responsible clinician and respect a valid decision within the applicable legal framework.
Common pitfalls
Reciting four principles without applying them, reaching a verdict before clarifying facts, or acting beyond your competence.
Official sources and further reading
Reviewed 2026-09-08. Check the linked guidance for changes before discussing current policy or law.