Reporting Concerns

An FY1 doctor is on her orthopedic surgery rotation. Over the past week, she has noticed that her registrar frequently turns up late and has often not shaved. He has a reputation for enjoying a good night out and has occasionally turned up with a hangover. However, the FY1 is concerned that there are incidents where he appears drunk and that this is beginning to affect his concentration and the level of care he is providing to his patients. He often rushes or neglects his bedside care of patients. She asks the registrar if he is feeling OK, but he irritably brushes her aside and says that it is none of her business. She is unsure what to do next.

• What is whistleblowing?
• What are the legal protections for a whistleblower?
• Does Jessica have a professional duty to report?

Apply Theory (Specific Professional Healthcare Competencies + Clinical Medical Ethical Principles) to Practice in order to provide Optimal Patient-Centered Care (OPCC)

Clinical Ethics and Law, Second edition. Carolyn Johnston, Penelope Bradbury, Series editor: Janice Ryme