Question

A 35-year-old man is brought to the emergency department unconscious after a road traffic collision. He is hypotensive and requires emergency laparotomy for intra-abdominal haemorrhage. No relatives are present and no advance decision is known. What is the most appropriate course of action regarding consent?

Accepted Answer

Proceed with life-saving surgery in his best interests without formal consent

Answer

Delay surgery until a relative can provide written consent

Answer

Seek consent from the police officer who attended the scene

Answer

Treat him conservatively until he regains consciousness

Answer

Apply to the court before undertaking any procedure

Practice question