Mrs Suleiman is a 70-year-old widow. She fractured her neck of femur in a fall while cooking at home. On investigation she was found to have osteoporosis. It was decided that the best course of action was surgery to replace her hip joint.
She is now a patient on the ward where you work as part of an MDT. Mrs Suleiman does not speak English well. She is family oriented – she lives for her children and grandchildren. She loves to cook and can’t wait to get fit enough to go home. She is used to having her decisions made by her family, as a mini-community.
Ashraf, 30, is Mrs Suleiman’s youngest son. He still lives in the family house, though his 3 brothers and 2 sisters have now left home. Ashraf is a devout Muslim and fiercely protective of his mother.
Ashraf is confused and angry that a male physiotherapist and nurse are caring for his mother. He is insisting that the male health workers cease treating and demanding the right to have his mother’s wishes respected. He says he will call a solicitor if it does not stop.
What should the MDT do for the best?