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Capacity and refusal of treatment — RACP Written MCQ

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ModerateEthics, Aboriginal health, public healthCapacity and refusal of treatmentRACP Written

A 72-year-old woman with advanced COPD refuses non-invasive ventilation during an exacerbation. She understands the information, retains it, weighs risks and communicates a consistent decision. Her daughter insists treatment must proceed. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: C — Respect the patient's capacitated refusal and optimise comfort-focused treatment

A patient with decision-making capacity may refuse life-sustaining treatment. The clinician should respect the decision and provide appropriate symptom-focused care.

Reference: RACP Professional Practice Framework; Australian clinical governance and public health guidance