A 55-year-old woman on ICU has capacity but is requesting that all treatment be withdrawn, including ventilatory support, despite a potentially revers...

Question

A 55-year-old woman on ICU has capacity but is requesting that all treatment be withdrawn, including ventilatory support, despite a potentially reversible condition (severe pneumonia with expected ICU stay of 7-10 days and >80% survival). She understands that withdrawal will likely result in her death. What is the correct legal and ethical response?

Accepted Answer

Respect her autonomous decision - a capacitous adult has the absolute right to refuse treatment, even life-sustaining treatment; however, ensure thorough capacity assessment, explore her reasons, offer support, and document carefully

Answer

Override her decision in her best interests - she will survive with treatment

Answer

Obtain a psychiatric assessment and only then respect her decision

Answer

Seek a Court of Protection ruling before complying

Answer

Ignore her request and continue treatment

uk-fficm MCQ (SBA): Capacitous Refusal of Treatment