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Case 3

A CXR was requested for an old, non-ambulant female patient. A radiographer took the portable unit to the ward to perform the CXR but the old lady refused the examination and she did not allow the radiographer to put the cassette in place or even touch her. When he started to do so, she struck out with her arm and made it very clear that she did not consent to the procedure. A nurse informed the radiographer that this was a difficult patient who very seldom cooperated with members of staff. Therefore, he decided to postpone the examination and left the ward. However, one hour later, the radiographer was called back to the ward to try to perform the examination again. At this time, the old lady was very calm and very sleepy, and he performed the examination successfully. After the examination, the radiographer asked the nurse what had happened to the old lady after he had left and she told him that the doctor had prescribed a tranquilizer for the old lady.

Consider the ethical and legal issues which arise from this case.