Question

A 63-year-old woman with moderate Alzheimer’s disease is admitted with pneumonia. She is confused and unable to understand or retain information about treatment options. According to UK law and GMC guidance, how should decisions about her treatment be made?

Accepted Answer

Make a best interests decision based on her past and present wishes, involving those close to her

Answer

Obtain consent from her nearest relative as they automatically have legal authority

Answer

Seek consent from any available family member with majority agreement

Answer

Ask the nursing staff to decide as they know her best

Answer

Automatically provide all possible treatments regardless of her wishes

Practice question

A 63-year-old woman with moderate Alzheimer’s disease is admitted with pneumonia. She is confused and unable to understand or retain information about treatment options. According to UK law and GMC guidance, how should decisions about her treatment be made?