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Lack of capacity with STEMI — ABEM Board MCQ

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HardEthics, risk management, disposition, medicolegalLack of capacity with STEMIABEM Board

A 56-year-old man arrives as ESI 2 after police bring him for paranoid behavior. He refuses evaluation for chest pain, but he cannot explain risks or benefits and believes staff are poisoning him. ECG shows inferior ST elevation. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: E — Treat under emergency exception while assessing capacity and using the least restrictive measures

A patient lacking decision-making capacity with a time-sensitive life threat may be treated under emergency exception while capacity is assessed and documented.

Reference: ACEP ethics resources; AMA Code of Medical Ethics on emergency treatment