Ethics & Law — MCQs

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245 questions— Page 17 of 25
Q161

A 38-year-old woman with metastatic cervical cancer has been receiving palliative chemotherapy. She develops spinal cord compression requiring urgent radiotherapy and high-dose dexamethasone to prevent paraplegia. She has capacity but refuses all treatment, stating she wants to 'die naturally'. Her partner asks you to treat her anyway as 'she doesn't know what she's saying'. What is the correct legal and ethical course of action?

Q162

Under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, which of the following actions would NOT constitute a deprivation of liberty requiring authorization?

Q163

A 93-year-old woman is dying from advanced dementia and pneumonia. She has a DNACPR in place and is receiving end-of-life care. Her daughter, who holds Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare, insists that antibiotics must be continued despite medical advice that they are no longer beneficial and may prolong suffering. What is the correct approach?

Q164

A 29-year-old man with Asperger syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder is admitted with acute appendicitis requiring emergency surgery. He has average intelligence and can explain the risks and benefits of surgery. However, he becomes extremely anxious and repeatedly asks the same questions about the procedure. He eventually signs the consent form but continues to express significant anxiety. What determines whether he has capacity to consent?

Q165

A 67-year-old man with motor neurone disease has made a written advance decision refusing 'artificial ventilation in all circumstances'. He develops type 2 respiratory failure with confusion and reduced consciousness. His wife asks you to start non-invasive ventilation, stating that he didn't understand how frightening breathlessness would be when he made the advance decision two years ago. What is the legally correct action?

Q166

A 16-year-old boy is brought to the emergency department by his mother following deliberate self-harm by cutting. He has capacity and refuses assessment by the mental health team, stating he just wants to go home. His mother is very concerned and asks you to detain him for psychiatric evaluation. What is the most appropriate course of action?

Q167

A 52-year-old woman with metastatic ovarian cancer attends the emergency department with bowel obstruction. She has an advance decision to refuse treatment (ADRT) documented 18 months ago refusing 'all invasive procedures and surgery'. She is now confused and hypotensive with signs of peritonitis. Her husband states she told him last week she had changed her mind and would accept surgery. What is the most appropriate action?

Q168

According to the Mental Capacity Act 2005, which principle must be applied when assessing whether a person lacks capacity to make a specific decision?

Q169

A 74-year-old man with end-stage heart failure and full capacity discusses his wishes with you. He states he does not want to be resuscitated if his heart stops, but would accept all other medical treatments including intensive care admission for reversible conditions. What is the most appropriate course of action?

Q170

A 19-year-old woman with severe learning disability (IQ 40) living in residential care requires removal of an impacted wisdom tooth under general anaesthetic. She becomes distressed during dental examinations and cannot understand the procedure despite repeated explanations. Her parents consent on her behalf. What is the correct legal basis for proceeding with treatment in England?

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