Question

A 72-year-old woman with advanced COPD is admitted with an exacerbation. Her daughter asks you not to tell her that she is dying because “”it will upset her””. The patient has previously said she likes to know what is happening. According to GMC guidance, what should you do?

Accepted Answer

Assess the patient’s wishes and give honest, sensitive information tailored to her preferences

Answer

Respect the daughter’s wishes and withhold information

Answer

Tell the daughter everything but not the patient

Answer

Refuse to discuss prognosis with anyone

Answer

Document nothing to protect yourself

Practice question

A 72-year-old woman with advanced COPD is admitted with an exacerbation. Her daughter asks you not to tell her that she is dying because “”it will upset her””. The patient has previously said she likes to know what is happening. According to GMC guidance, what should you do?