Question

A 68-year-old man with moderate dementia is brought to clinic by his daughter. He lacks capacity to understand his treatment options for pneumonia. His wife, who is his legally appointed substitute decision-maker (SDM), requests a treatment plan consistent with his previously expressed wishes. According to Canadian consent and capacity principles, what should the physician do?

Accepted Answer

Seek informed consent from the legally appointed SDM, guided by the patient's prior capable wishes and values

Answer

Treat based on the daughter's preferences because she brought him to clinic

Answer

Treat based on the physician's view of the patient's best interests without consulting family

Answer

Delay treatment until the patient regains capacity

Answer

Ask all family members to vote on the preferred option

Practice question