Questions/Ethics & Legal/Q12 of 27
advancedsubstituted judgmentbest interestsurrogate decision-makinghealthcare proxydementiaethics
A 68-year-old woman with advanced dementia and a history of recurrent major depression is no longer able to make her own treatment decisions. She stopped eating, has lost 15 pounds, and appears withdrawn and tearful. Her daughter, who holds healthcare power of attorney, states that her mother 'always said she never wanted to be on psychiatric medication.' The treatment team believes an antidepressant trial could significantly improve her quality of life. The PMHNP must determine which ethical framework guides surrogate decision-making.
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