Clin Med
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Postgraduate medical training presents many instances in which a junior doctor must decide whether it is appropriate to proceed without the advice, supervision or practical assistance of a senior. These decisions, vital to the development of any doctor, are commonly made in the context of providing medical treatment to acutely unwell patients or undertaking practical procedures. ⋯ The relevance of each of these factors is explored in the context of two scenarios. In this way a simple framework to assist junior doctors in considering the risks and benefits of their intended actions is presented.