If a patient has stated a wish to remove life-sustaining treatment, and family requests continuing care, what is the physician's course of action?

If a patient has stated a wish to remove life-sustaining treatment, and family requests continuing care, what is the physician's course of action?

• A. Seek a court order
• B. Remove endotracheal tube
• C. Continue treatment against the patient's wishes
• D. Do nothing

Answer: (B)

Respect for patient autonomy means honoring a competent patient’s explicit wish to discontinue life-sustaining treatment, even if family members want to continue care. When the patient has clearly requested withdrawal, the physician should facilitate that withdrawal, such as removing the endotracheal tube, rather than prolonging treatment against the patient’s wishes. The family’s desire to maintain care does not override the patient’s stated instructions. A court order is not typically required in this scenario, as there is clear consent from the patient. Choosing to do nothing or to continue treatment would fail to respect the patient’s autonomy. Throughout this, provide appropriate comfort measures and document the decision.

Respect for patient autonomy means honoring a competent patient’s explicit wish to discontinue life-sustaining treatment, even if family members want to continue care. When the patient has clearly requested withdrawal, the physician should facilitate that withdrawal, such as removing the endotracheal tube, rather than prolonging treatment against the patient’s wishes. The family’s desire to maintain care does not override the patient’s stated instructions. A court order is not typically required in this scenario, as there is clear consent from the patient. Choosing to do nothing or to continue treatment would fail to respect the patient’s autonomy. Throughout this, provide appropriate comfort measures and document the decision.