Practice Set 4: Professional Integrity Scenarios

Professional integrity means being honest, transparent, and accountable — even when it is difficult. The GMC's Good Medical Practice framework makes clear that doctors must act with integrity at all times, and the SJT tests this principle extensively. These scenarios are often the most challenging because they pit personal consequences against doing the right thing.

Integrity questions in the SJT might involve admitting a mistake, reporting a colleague, refusing to cover up an error, or being transparent with a patient when something has gone wrong. The correct answer is almost always the honest and transparent one, even if it is personally uncomfortable or socially awkward.

The duty of candour is a legal and ethical obligation requiring healthcare professionals to be open and honest with patients when things go wrong. In SJT terms, this means that concealing an error — even a minor one — is always rated as inappropriate. Admitting the error, apologising, and explaining what will be done to prevent recurrence is the expected standard.