In our last issue of Notes, we looked at why professional conduct is important throughout your studies – and shared stories of students who crossed the line in their behaviour and saw their professionalism called into question.
It's important for you as a student to know where your responsibilities lie, and how your actions might impact on your studies and future career.
As a result, the GMC has recently published an updated resource – based on its core ethical guidance for doctors, Good medical practice – to help you understand what's expected of you as a student, and how to keep your professional standards high.
The guidance encourages you to:
- Keep your skills up to date, engage with your studies and reflect on your performance
- Understand the limits of your competence and ask for advice when you need to
- Maintain clear and accurate notes and documentation – even if they're just for your own learning – to build your skills
- Communicate effectively with patients – making sure you're honest when you don't know something
- Be aware of issues surrounding patient confidentiality, and what constitutes improper disclosure
- Be honest and trustworthy in your studies and on placement.
You can find the full guidance on the GMC's website.