A 22-year-old man arrives at the emergency department with a stab wound to the abdomen from an assault. He asks you not to tell anyone. What do GMC guidelines require?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Inform the police quickly of the wound, without giving his identity at first
- Step 1: GMC guidance on gunshot and knife wounds says doctors should inform the police when a person arrives with these injuries.
- Step 2: The report can be made without identifying the patient unless there is a further justification.
Answer
Inform the police quickly of the wound, without giving his identity at first.
Why not the others: Say nothing to the police unless he consents: The duty to report exists regardless of consent. Wait until he has recovered and can decide for himself before contacting anyone: Delay defeats the purpose. Contact his employer to explain the absence and the cause of the injury: Employers have no role.
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