Question

A patient with advanced cancer wishes to refuse further treatment, but her family insists she continues. Legally in the UK, what is the guiding principle in respecting the patient's decision?

Accepted Answer

The patient's autonomy if she has capacity

Answer

Best interest as decided by family

Answer

The principle of beneficence overrides autonomy

Answer

Court order is needed for withdrawal of treatment

Answer

Healthcare team must always follow family wishes

Practice question

A patient with advanced cancer wishes to refuse further treatment, but her family insists she continues. Legally in the UK, what is the guiding principle in respecting the patient's decision?