Behavioral Science & Ethics USMLE Step 1 Practice Question
A 52-year-old internist observes a colleague appearing drowsy and incoherent during morning rounds on three separate occasions over two weeks. The colleague has been prescribing high-dose opioids to multiple patients without documented pain assessments or urine drug screens. Chart review reveals prescriptions exceed DEA guidelines. The observing physician notes the colleague denies substance use when casually asked. Which of the following is the most appropriate first step in addressing this ethical concern?
Answer choices
- AConfront the colleague privately and suggest he seek help
- BAnonymously report the colleague to law enforcement
- CReport the colleague to the state medical board
- DIgnore the situation because physicians should not judge other physicians
- EReport the colleague to the hospital's impaired physician program or chief of staffCorrect answer
- FConsult with the colleague's patients to inform them of potential prescription irregularities
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