Question

An 82-year-old woman with pneumonia is acutely confused, pulling out cannulae and refusing intravenous antibiotics. You suspect delirium. She is normally independent. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Assess her decision-making capacity and, if lacking, treat in her best interests

Answer

Respect her refusal and discharge her home

Answer

Ask her daughter to sign a consent form for treatment

Answer

Apply urgently to the Court of Protection before starting treatment

Answer

Sedate her immediately without further assessment and start treatment

Practice question

An 82-year-old woman with pneumonia is acutely confused, pulling out cannulae and refusing intravenous antibiotics. You suspect delirium. She is normally independent. What is the most appropriate next step?