Question

An 82-year-old man with severe aortic stenosis is admitted with decompensated heart failure. He is fully oriented and understands that without valve replacement he may die within months, but he clearly refuses surgery, stating he wishes to focus on comfort. His family insist you proceed with the operation. What should you do?

Accepted Answer

Respect his decision if he has capacity, and optimise palliative and medical management

Answer

Proceed with surgery based on family wishes

Answer

Apply to the court to overrule his decision

Answer

Detain him under the Mental Health Act and perform surgery

Answer

Ask another consultant to take over so you do not have to decide

Practice question