Question

A junior doctor asks about a patient's capacity to refuse life-saving treatment. Which legal principle applies in England and Wales?

Accepted Answer

Capacity is assumed unless proven otherwise

Answer

Patients with mental illness automatically lack capacity

Answer

All patients lacking insight must be treated under the Mental Health Act

Answer

Capacity is irrelevant; best interest decisions are made by the doctor alone

Answer

Under 18s always have capacity by default

Practice question

A junior doctor asks about a patient's capacity to refuse life-saving treatment. Which legal principle applies in England and Wales?