'Is she fit to sign, doctor?' Practical ethical issues in assessing the competence of elderly patients

P. Finucane, C. Myser, S. Ticehurst

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/debate

Abstract

The competence of elderly people to participate in medical decision-making is often called into question. This article explores the concept of competence as it relates to elderly people, and outlines the guiding ethical principles of autonomy and beneficence. Practical guidelines are offered on how competence can be assessed and some avoidable pitfalls are highlighted.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)400-403
Number of pages4
JournalMedical Journal of Australia
Volume159
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1993
Externally publishedYes

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