An 83-year-old diabetic male, Mr. Jones, is brought in to the emergency department because of respiratory distress by his care-giving daughter, with whom he lives. In examining him, the emergency department physician discovers that Mr. Jones has gangrene on his right foot up to his ankle. Mr. Jones' daughter reports that her father has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. A preliminary capacity assessment is consistent with mild dementia but one of the nurses suggests that Mr. Jones' confusion might be the result of his respiratory distress, coupled with the disorienting atmosphere of the emergency department. The clinical recommendation is to perform a below-the-knee amputation. The patient refuses this surgery, saying he has lived long enough and wants to die with his body intact.
Does the father have autonomy to make this decision? Why or why not? Discuss the principle of nonmaleficence as it relates to actions of the providers.