Question

A 68-year-old man with dementia is admitted with pneumonia. He is agitated, pulling at lines and refusing oral antibiotics. He is disorientated to time and place and cannot retain information about treatment. What is the most appropriate first step regarding capacity and treatment?

Accepted Answer

Assess his capacity for this specific decision and treat in his best interests if he lacks capacity

Answer

Assume he lacks capacity because he has dementia and treat against his wishes

Answer

Respect his refusal absolutely and discharge him

Answer

Detain him under the Mental Health Act to give antibiotics

Answer

Ask family to give consent on his behalf without capacity assessment

Practice question

A 68-year-old man with dementia is admitted with pneumonia. He is agitated, pulling at lines and refusing oral antibiotics. He is disorientated to time and place and cannot retain information about treatment. What is the most appropriate first step regarding capacity and treatment?