What does the 'duty of candour' in healthcare require from medical professionals?

The 'duty of candour' in healthcare is fundamentally about ensuring transparency and honesty in communication with patients, particularly in situations where care has not gone as expected or when there has been a mistake that affects the patient's treatment or outcomes. Medical professionals are required by this duty to openly inform patients about any errors that occurred and the implications of those errors for their health and treatment.

Being open and honest builds trust between patients and healthcare providers, allowing for a more collaborative and informed approach to care. It empowers patients by ensuring they are fully informed about their health status and treatment options, which is essential for making educated decisions regarding their care. This duty is not just an ethical obligation but is also often codified in laws and regulations governing healthcare practices.

In contrast, following strict medical protocols or documenting every interaction, while important, does not directly address the requirement for transparency about mistakes. Similarly, while informing patients of risks is a critical aspect of informed consent, it does not encompass the specific obligations related to admitting faults or failures in care, which is the essence of the duty of candour. Thus, the correct choice highlights the key responsibility of healthcare professionals to maintain honesty in all patient interactions, especially under adverse circumstances.