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Colleague Smelling of Alcohol

MMIMedium
Ethics · 6 minSelf-marked
How to use this: start the timer and answer the question out loud (or type it). Then grade yourself 0–3 on each skill with a note of your evidence — exactly as our examiners do. Hit Reveal benchmark & score to see what a model answer scores and how you compare. Everything saves to your browser automatically.
Answer timer
6:00/ 6 min suggested
1

Answer the question

Colleague Smelling of Alcohol

You suspect a colleague has been drinking on the job. What do you do?

Likely follow-ups
1

What if they are senior to you?

2

What if you're wrong?

3

What GMC guidance applies?

Your answer

Speak it out loud and we'll type it for you (free), or type your own notes — then mark yourself below.

Resources & frameworks
  • Four pillars: autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice.
  • Name the conflict → weigh both sides → gather more info → safe, patient-centred action.
What strong answers do
Reveal the benchmark

Hidden so they don't bias your answer. Score yourself first, then reveal them to compare.

  • Raise it locally first, but you cannot stay silent. GMC's duty of candour and patient safety duties override loyalty.
  • Frame the conversation with the colleague directly first if safe - they may have an explanation or need urgent help.
  • Escalate to the supervisor / clinical lead if the risk is immediate or the colleague is evasive.
2

Mark yourself

Score each skill against the rubric, then add a line of evidence. Scale:

0Not shown1Limited2Good3Excellent
Quick mark:Completion: 0%

Ethical Awareness

0/3

Prioritises patient safety

Professionalism

0/3

Knows the escalation path

Courage

0/3

Willing to challenge a peer

Communication

0/3

Handles a difficult conversation

3

Reflect & score

What would you change next time?
Your overall score / 10
Total: 0/12
Saved to your browser