Domain 4: Maintaining trust
Show respect for patients
53. You must not use your professional position to pursue a sexual or improper emotional relationship with a patient or someone close to them.12.
54. You must not express your personal beliefs (including political, religious and moral beliefs) to patients in ways that exploit their vulnerability or are likely to cause them distress.17.
55. You must be open and honest with patients if things go wrong. If a patient under your care has suffered harm or distress, you should:
- put matters right (if that is possible)
- offer an apology
- explain fully and promptly what has happened and the likely short-term and long-term effects.
Employers have a similar entitlement to receive an honest explanation if things go wrong in the occupational health care of a worker. This should incorporate constructive advice on how matters can be made better or put right.