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Court of Protection — DGM MCQ

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HardEthics and lawCourt of ProtectionDGM

An 87-year-old woman lacks capacity and there is serious disagreement between family and clinicians about amputation for life-threatening limb ischaemia. The decision is high stakes and not immediately required within minutes. No valid LPA is identified. Current medicines include analgesia and antibiotics. What is the most appropriate referral?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Seek legal advice and consider Court of Protection application

Serious unresolved disagreement about major treatment for a person lacking capacity may require legal advice and Court of Protection involvement. Secret treatment, family hierarchy, discharge without care and ignoring legal escalation are inappropriate. Most best-interest decisions do not need court, but high-stakes disputes may.

Reference: Mental Capacity Act 2005; GMC guidance