Question

A 78-year-old man with mild dementia is admitted with pneumonia. He refuses blood draws, stating "leave me alone". He is oriented to person but not to place or time and cannot explain the risks of refusing investigations. His daughter is present. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Assess his decision-making capacity formally and, if lacking, seek consent from his substitute decision-maker

Answer

Respect his refusal without assessing capacity

Answer

Proceed with all investigations without any consent because he is confused

Answer

Apply for court order before drawing any blood

Answer

Restrain him physically and perform tests without further discussion

Practice question

A 78-year-old man with mild dementia is admitted with pneumonia. He refuses blood draws, stating "leave me alone". He is oriented to person but not to place or time and cannot explain the risks of refusing investigations. His daughter is present. What is the most appropriate next step?