Unless there is pressing medical urgency, it is unwise to ask patients for consent when they are sleepy, sedated, or confused.
With older patients, especially those that have some delirium, alertness may wax and wane.
Wait until your patients are alert and able to give full consent.
Otherwise, ask a surrogate decision-maker.
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- Avoid seeking a patient's consent when he/she is sleepy, sedated, or confused.
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