Question

A 74-year-old man with advanced COPD and multiple comorbidities is admitted with pneumonia. After discussion, he declines escalation to intensive care but wishes full ward-based treatment. He has capacity. His family insist he must go to ICU if he deteriorates. According to GMC guidance, what should you do?

Accepted Answer

Respect the patient’s decision and document a treatment escalation plan accordingly

Answer

Follow the family’s wishes because they know him best

Answer

Ignore his decision and plan for full escalation

Answer

Ask the court to overrule the patient

Answer

Remove the family from decision-making entirely

Practice question