American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ABPN Practice Questions and Study Guide

The substituted judgment standard is the correct approach to decision-making when a patient is incapacitated because it seeks to determine what the patient would have chosen if they had the capacity to make their own decisions. This method involves identifying the patient's values, preferences, and past statements regarding their wishes about medical treatment or interventions. It respects the autonomy of the patient by using their personal beliefs and values to guide decisions in situations where they are unable to express their will.

This approach is particularly valuable in medical contexts, where understanding the patient's perspective is crucial for ethical decision-making. It emphasizes the importance of considering the individual’s prior wishes and contexts, allowing for decision-making that aligns most closely with the patient's own values, even in their absence.

While other methods like the best interest standard might focus on what is generally considered to be in the best interest of the patient without considering their individual preferences, the substituted judgment standard prioritizes the patient's autonomy and specific desires, making it a more personalized and ethically sound approach.