Behavioral Science & Ethics USMLE Step 1 Practice Question
A 65-year-old man with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is admitted with an acute exacerbation. He has a living will that states he does not want mechanical ventilation. His respiratory status deteriorates, and his oxygen saturation falls to 78% despite supplemental oxygen. His wife, who is his healthcare proxy, requests intubation. Which of the following is the most appropriate action?
Answer choices
- AIntubate per the wife's request as healthcare proxy
- BAsk the patient to reconfirm his wishes if he is still consciousCorrect answer
- CConvene an emergency ethics consultation before deciding
- DFollow the living will and do not intubate
- EIntubate temporarily while seeking legal guidance
- FDefer the decision to the patient's primary care physician who knows him best
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