Question

A 70-year-old woman with known dementia and pneumonia is refusing oral antibiotics and fluids. She appears confused and cannot retain information about her treatment options. What is the most appropriate approach to consent?

Accepted Answer

Assess her capacity specific to this decision and, if lacking, treat in her best interests

Answer

Assume she lacks capacity for all decisions permanently

Answer

Force treatment regardless of capacity

Answer

Ask her family to sign a consent form on her behalf

Answer

Do nothing and respect her refusal without assessment

Practice question

A 70-year-old woman with known dementia and pneumonia is refusing oral antibiotics and fluids. She appears confused and cannot retain information about her treatment options. What is the most appropriate approach to consent?