Dilemmas

A final-year student faces an unexpected test of her skills when she's called to help with a medical emergency mid-flight.

Illustration of ECG showing heartbeats and then flatline
I’ve been asked to certify a death – and I don’t know what to do

28 July 2025

When an FY1 was asked to certify a death for the first time, she wanted to make sure everything was done properly - and turned to the MDU for advice.

Blurred image of concert crowd during festival, hands up of many people and drugs effect
Do medical students need to tell the GMC about a drug conviction?

12 May 2025

Caught with a minor drug offence at a music festival in the US, a medical student wondered whether she had to declare it on her GMC registration.

Student hanging on a tearing graduate cap tassel illustration
I skipped lectures and now I'm under investigation

15 April 2025

One student’s medical school training hangs in the balance as concerns about his poor attendance trigger a fitness to practise investigation.

Contemporary collage depicting hands holding binoculars against a blue background
Help! My supervisor is under investigation

4 March 2025

A student is asked to give a witness statement about a supervisor's alleged misconduct – but saw nothing.

Collage pop art banner, hands opening a gift
Help! A patient gave me a gift – should I accept?

27 January 2025

A gift from a patient might seem thoughtful – but is it ever appropriate to accept?

drink glass love
Help! I have feelings for a patient

20 January 2025

A foundation doctor feels conflicted after being asked out for a drink by a patient, and calls the MDU advice line for advice on what to do.

silhouette sexual harassment
What should I do if I'm sexually harassed by a colleague?

25 September 2024

A foundation doctor calls the MDU for advice after experiencing inappropriate behaviour and unwanted physical contact on multiple occasions.

WhatsApp logo and icon on phone
I sent an inappropriate photo on WhatsApp and now I'm facing investigation

13 September 2024

A medical student's professionalism is called into question after sending an inappropriate picture on WhatsApp.

NHS prescription tablets
I prescribed antibiotics for a friend and now they’re in hospital – what do I do?

17 April 2024

A resident doctor faces repercussions when his friend is hospitalised after inappropriate prescribing.