If a patient is competent and consents to a procedure while a proxy refuses the procedure, what should be done?

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Multiple Choice

If a patient is competent and consents to a procedure while a proxy refuses the procedure, what should be done?

When a patient is decisionally capable, their own informed consent governs the care plan. A surrogate’s refusal does not override a competent patient’s decision. If the patient clearly consents after understanding the risks, benefits, and alternatives, you proceed with the procedure. To do this properly, confirm the patient’s capacity and ensure the consent is informed and voluntary, then document your assessment and the consent. The proxy’s objection can be addressed and discussed, but it does not block a competent patient’s choice. If capacity were lacking or an advance directive/surrogate with legal authority existed, decisions would follow those directives or require a different process, but that isn’t the scenario here.

When a patient is decisionally capable, their own informed consent governs the care plan. A surrogate’s refusal does not override a competent patient’s decision. If the patient clearly consents after understanding the risks, benefits, and alternatives, you proceed with the procedure.

To do this properly, confirm the patient’s capacity and ensure the consent is informed and voluntary, then document your assessment and the consent. The proxy’s objection can be addressed and discussed, but it does not block a competent patient’s choice. If capacity were lacking or an advance directive/surrogate with legal authority existed, decisions would follow those directives or require a different process, but that isn’t the scenario here.

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