Reference no: EM133242025

Mrs. L has been on dialysis for about a year. Over the past several weeks, she has experienced painful open sores, but their cause is unknown and the pain control she has been offered still leaves her in great pain. Mrs. L appreciates that continuing dialysis is prolonging her current painful state with no relief in sight. When she is alone with her nurses, Mrs. L. refuses dialysis and says she just wants "a peaceful death." When meeting with her husband and her physician, Mrs. L. initially resists continuing treatment, but eventually gives in to her husband's wishes.

Does she have decision-making capacity? Why or why not? (Hint: Support your answer with reference to established criteria for assessing capacity.)