A 72‑year‑old man with advanced prostate cancer has been assessed by the palliative care team as having capacity to refuse a blood transfusion for

Question

A 72‑year‑old man with advanced prostate cancer has been assessed by the palliative care team as having capacity to refuse a blood transfusion for symptomatic anaemia (Hb 62 g/L). The haematology team disagrees with this assessment, believing the low haemoglobin may be impairing his cognition. What should happen next?

Accepted Answer

Arrange a second capacity assessment by an independent clinician, as capacity can be challenged and reassessment may confirm or reverse the original conclusion

Answer

Accept the initial capacity assessment as final and unchallengeable

Answer

Transfuse the patient regardless of the capacity assessment to prevent harm

Answer

Refer the case immediately to the Court of Protection

Answer

Allow haematology’s view to override the palliative care assessment automatically

Challenged Capacity Assessment Resolution — SCE Palliative Medicine MCQ