A patient has a valid and applicable advance decision refusing a specified life-sustaining treatment if the patient later lacks capacity. The patient now lacks capacity and the clinical situation matches the decision. What should the nurse do?

Correct answer: A. Follow the advance decision and inform the clinical team

  • A. Follow the advance decision and inform the clinical team
  • B. Ask the family to cancel the advance decision
  • C. Ignore it because the patient currently lacks capacity
  • D. Provide the treatment until a court reviews the decision

Explanation

A valid and applicable advance decision to refuse treatment is legally binding in England and Wales. For life-sustaining treatment, it must meet the required formal conditions, including being written, signed and witnessed with the required statement. The nurse should alert the responsible clinical team and ensure the decision is considered.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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About UK Law, Consent and Mental Capacity

UK consent and capacity law covers valid voluntary consent, adequate information, refusal of treatment, and the Mental Capacity Act principles for assessing decision specific capacity. It includes best interests decisions, least restrictive care, advance decisions and lasting powers of attorney, with capacity distinguished from mental illness, and legal capacity distinguished from clinical competence or mere agreement.

Practise UK Law, Consent and Mental Capacity

50 free UK Law, Consent and Mental Capacity MCQs from International Nursing Practice, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

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