Question

A 79-year-old man with moderate Alzheimer’s disease presents with an acutely ischaemic leg requiring urgent surgery. He is agitated and repeatedly says he does not want any operation but cannot understand or retain information about risks and benefits. His son asks you to proceed with surgery. What is the most appropriate course of action?

Accepted Answer

Assess capacity for this specific decision and, if lacking, proceed in the patient’s best interests

Answer

Respect the patient’s verbal refusal and provide only palliative care

Answer

Rely solely on the son’s wishes to proceed

Answer

Assume he lacks capacity for all decisions and appoint the son as legal guardian

Answer

Apply to the court before making any decision

Practice question