A 65-year-old man has been on ICU for 28 days with multi-organ failure from sepsis. Despite maximal treatment, he is not improving. The senior registr...

Question

A 65-year-old man has been on ICU for 28 days with multi-organ failure from sepsis. Despite maximal treatment, he is not improving. The senior registrar believes treatment should be withdrawn but the consultant disagrees and wants to continue. According to GMC guidance, who makes the final decision?

Accepted Answer

The most senior clinician responsible for the patient's care (the consultant) makes the final decision, taking into account the views of the clinical team, the patient's values and wishes (through family consultation), and the best interests framework - if the registrar disagrees, they should escalate through appropriate channels

Answer

The senior registrar, as they spend the most time at the bedside

Answer

The nurses make the decision

Answer

The hospital CEO

Answer

A vote among all ICU staff

uk-fficm MCQ (SBA): Clinical Disagreement - Decision Authority