Question

Mrs. S is a 75-year-old woman with progressively severe dementia. She has had repeated episodes of aspiration pneumonia and is eating and drinking a limited quantity of food. She lacks decision-making capacity and does not have an advance directive as to her care wishes.

1. What is the moral/ethical question in this case?
2. What are the facts?
3. What other information do you need to make an ethical decision about the care of Mrs. S? (Include medical, rules, ethical, and cultural information.)
4. What are the options and what do you recommend?

Answer 1

The moral or ethical questions here is who is responsible to take decision on behalf of the patient in regards to medical care

The fact is that the patient is an adult but mentally unsound to take an appropriate medical decisions.

The other information which has to be made are

• Legal aide to frame an advance directive
• Ethical committee involvement for guidance and suggestions for further care which is morally and ethically acceotable
• Medical clearance on the patient regarding the health status to issues an advance directive on behalf of the patient legally.

The better option here is to seek the help of law to make a decision for the patient bybthe health care team. This can prevent any future consequences and conflicts from human rights commite and other organisations.