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Capacity refusal after head injury — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModeratePsychiatric emergenciesCapacity refusal after head injuryRCPSC EM

CTAS 2. A 67-year-old with a head strike and vomiting refuses CT, saying the scanner will steal his thoughts. He cannot describe the risk of intracranial bleeding. GCS is 14 and he is on apixaban. What is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: E — Treat as lacking capacity and proceed under emergency authority

Capacity is decision-specific; inability to understand and appreciate material risks permits emergency treatment under applicable provincial law.

Reference: Canadian Medical Protective Association consent and capacity guidance