Consent guidance: Respecting a patient's decisions

1. 43. You must respect a patient’s decision to refuse an investigation or treatment, even if you think their decision is wrong or irrational.¹⁰ You should explain your concerns clearly to the patient and outline the possible consequences of their decision. You must not, however, put pressure on a patient to accept your advice. If you are unsure about the patient’s capacity to make a decision, you must follow the guidance in Part 3.