Question

A 57-year-old woman with long-standing schizophrenia lacks insight and refuses life-saving surgery for a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. She is hypotensive and confused. There is no advance directive. Which is the best immediate course of action regarding consent, according to Canadian capacity principles?

Accepted Answer

Perform a focused capacity assessment; if she lacks capacity, seek substitute decision-maker and proceed with emergency treatment in her best interests

Answer

Respect her refusal without assessing capacity

Answer

Assume she lacks capacity and proceed without any further steps

Answer

Apply to the court before proceeding, even though she is unstable

Answer

Physically restrain and treat without any attempt at communication

Practice question