A 75-year-old female with advanced metastatic cancer is admitted with pneumonia. She is alert, oriented, and repeatedly states, "I do not want any aggressive treatments or to be intubated. I just want to be comfortable." Her son insists that "everything must be done to save her, no matter what." What is the MOST ethically appropriate approach for the medical team?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
When a patient possesses decisional capacity, their autonomous choices regarding their medical care must be respected, even if family members disagree. Patient autonomy is a paramount ethical principle in such situations.