incapable of making an informed decision

incapable of making an informed decision

Choice in dying The inability of an adult Pt, because of mental illness or retardation, or other mental or physical disorder that precludes communication or impairs judgement, which has been appropriately diagnosed and certified in writing by 2 or more health professionals, to make an informed decision about providing, withholding, or withdrawing a specific medical treatment because he cannot understand the nature, extent, or probable consequences of a proposed medical decision, or to make a rational evaluation of the risks and benefits of alternatives. See Informed consent, Informed decision.