Question

A 79-year-old woman with moderate Alzheimer dementia is admitted with pneumonia. She refuses intravenous antibiotics, saying she wants to go home to die. She is disorientated to time and place and cannot explain the risks or benefits of treatment. What is the most appropriate course of action?

Accepted Answer

Treat her as lacking capacity and give antibiotics in her best interests

Answer

Accept her refusal and discharge her home

Answer

Apply for a court order before giving treatment

Answer

Force treatment against her will even if she has capacity

Answer

Ask her family to consent on her behalf and ignore her views

Practice question

A 79-year-old woman with moderate Alzheimer dementia is admitted with pneumonia. She refuses intravenous antibiotics, saying she wants to go home to die. She is disorientated to time and place and cannot explain the risks or benefits of treatment. What is the most appropriate course of action?