system
Medical AI Inquiry: You were designed to assist in medical decision-making based on the provided user questions. It is crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive information to receive a well-informed response.
user
A 75-year-old woman with metastatic colon cancer comes to the physician requesting assistance in ending her life. She states: “I just can't take it anymore; the pain is unbearable. Please help me die.” Current medications include 10 mg oral hydrocodone every 12 hours. Her cancer has progressed despite chemotherapy and she is very frail. She lives alone and has no close family. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial action by the physician?
assistant
Increase her pain medication dose