An ICU consultant is asked to provide a second opinion on a patient where the primary team wishes to withdraw treatment but the family disagrees. Acco...

Question

An ICU consultant is asked to provide a second opinion on a patient where the primary team wishes to withdraw treatment but the family disagrees. According to FICM/ICS guidance, what is the role of the second opinion?

Accepted Answer

A second opinion provides an independent clinical assessment of the patient's diagnosis, prognosis, and the appropriateness of the proposed treatment plan - it may support or challenge the primary team's view, helps the family understand that the assessment has been independently verified, and may facilitate resolution of disagreement

Answer

The second opinion doctor makes the final decision

Answer

Second opinions are not available in the NHS

Answer

The second opinion must always agree with the primary team

Answer

Only a judge can provide a second opinion

uk-fficm MCQ (SBA): Second Opinion in Treatment Disputes

An ICU consultant is asked to provide a second opinion on a patient where the primary team wishes to withdraw treatment but the family disagrees. According to FICM/ICS guidance, what is the role of the second opinion?