Case 5

Patient
Mr. James Chen, 58-year-old male

Clinical Scenario

Mr. James Chen, an accountant, suffered an ischemic stroke to the left frontal lobe (Broca's area) 6 weeks ago. He retained full motor function bilaterally and demonstrates normal ambulation, strength, and coordination. However, he exhibits moderate-to-severe Broca's aphasia characterized by effortful, telegraphic speech, significant word-finding difficulties, and relatively preserved comprehension. He plans to return home independently without live-in caregiver support.

Ethical Dilemma

Does Mr. Chen's preserved comprehension and decision-making capacity give him the right to return home alone despite communication vulnerabilities that could compromise safety?

Discussion Questions

Is it ethical to discharge without ensuring 24/7 communication support, or does requiring such support inappropriately restrict independence?
Should communication deficits alone disqualify someone from driving if cognitive and motor skills are intact, or does inability to handle roadside emergencies constitute sufficient risk?

Submit Your Team's Response

IPE Case 3 Discussion Form