An elderly woman designated a durable power of attorney while still competent. She is now in a coma and on a ventilator following surgery. The designee feels she is suffering and wishes to withdraw life support. Other family members disagree and wish to have life support continued. The other family members also indicate that the designee is beneficiary to half of the patient's estate and is
having financial problems. What action should be taken?
A) Follow the instructions of the designee because the durable power of attorney for healthcare is a legal document.
B) Instruct the family members that they have to sort it out themselves because the hospital cannot be involved in any action.
C) Permit all parties involved to request that the attending physician order a consultation with a medical specialist.
D) Seek consultation with the local district attorney regarding this conflict of interest so as to resolve it appropriately.
A
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