A 47-year-old First Nations man with diabetic foot sepsis is reluctant to stay because of prior experiences of racism in hospital. He is febrile,

Question

A 47-year-old First Nations man with diabetic foot sepsis is reluctant to stay because of prior experiences of racism in hospital. He is febrile, lactate is 3.6 mmol/L, and has decision-making capacity after analgesia and explanation. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Use a culturally safe discussion, address mistrust directly, offer Indigenous liaison support, and negotiate a treatment plan

Answer

Call security to prevent departure because sepsis is present

Answer

Ask family to consent on his behalf despite capacity

Answer

Document refusal and avoid further discussion of systemic concerns

Answer

Proceed with treatment without consent because the infection is serious

Culturally safe sepsis care — RCPSC EM MCQ

A 47-year-old First Nations man with diabetic foot sepsis is reluctant to stay because of prior experiences of racism in hospital. He is febrile, lactate is 3.6 mmol/L, and has decision-making capacity after analgesia and explanation. What is the most appropriate next step?