Rennie v. Klein established that patients have the right to?

• A. Refuse any treatment and appeal
• B. Refuse only some treatments
• C. Demand immediate discharge
• D. Accept all recommended treatments

Answer: (A)

Rennie v. Klein centers on patient autonomy in psychiatric care, affirming that individuals have the right to control what happens to their own bodies, even when under treatment for mental illness. The ruling makes clear that patients can refuse any treatment they do not consent to and can seek review or appeal of treatment decisions or involuntary commitments. This upholds informed consent and self‑determination, ensuring patients participate in care decisions and have a route to challenge coercive measures through an independent review mechanism. In practice, capacity is a separate consideration; if a patient lacks capacity, substitute decision-makers may be involved, but the patient still retains the right to participate in the process and to appeal. The emphasis here is on preserving autonomy by allowing refusal of treatment and providing a formal path to contest decisions.