Issue 1

A question of consent

In focus

Feature

Patients behaving badly

Patients who demonstrate challenging behaviours towards healthcare or administrative staff may respond well to an Acceptable Behaviour Agreement.

Leader

Perceptions of risk

Although it is impossible to entirely eliminate risk from medical practice, the MDU provides a model of defence supported by expert evidence. This model provides the greatest benefits for members

Feature

Breathing lessons

Asthma care has been under the spotlight since the publication of an RCP report last year. Dr Beverley Ward explains how its disturbing findings present opportunities to improve asthma services.