A 68-year-old man with pneumonia refuses antibiotics. He explains the diagnosis, treatment, risk of death without treatment, and alternatives. His

Question

A 68-year-old man with pneumonia refuses antibiotics. He explains the diagnosis, treatment, risk of death without treatment, and alternatives. His reasoning is consistent with prior values and he is not delirious. Which of the following is the most appropriate at this time?

Accepted Answer

Respect his informed refusal

Answer

Ask family to override his decision

Answer

Treat over objection because refusal is risky

Answer

Declare incapacity due to disagreement

Answer

Obtain a court order before discussion

Capacity refusal — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

A 68-year-old man with pneumonia refuses antibiotics. He explains the diagnosis, treatment, risk of death without treatment, and alternatives. His reasoning is consistent with prior values and he is not delirious. Which of the following is the most appropriate at this time?