Question

A 72 year old man with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic kidney disease and heart failure is admitted with severe sepsis. Despite maximal treatment he deteriorates rapidly and dies. His family later complain that they were not involved in discussions about ceilings of care. According to GMC Good Medical Practice 2024, what should doctors ensure when making complex end of life decisions?

Accepted Answer

That patients and those important to them are involved in discussions about goals of care and treatment options wherever possible

Answer

That only doctors decide and relatives are not consulted

Answer

That treatment is continued indefinitely regardless of benefit

Answer

That decisions are based solely on resource considerations

Answer

That written consent is obtained from relatives for DNACPR decisions

Practice question