Mr. Atkinson, a 65-year-old patient with end-stage lung cancer, presents to the emergency room complaining of shortness of breath. An evaluation reveals that he has COVID-19. Mr. Atkinson's condition deteriorates in the emergency room, and he has impending respiratory failure needing mechanical ventilation. Multiple efforts to wean him from the ventilator have been unsuccessful. Awake and alert, he now communicates through written notes that he wants the ventilator taken off. Mr. Atkinson gave his wife medical power of attorney. She disagrees with her husband's decision. Should the hospital honor his request?

A- If Mr. Atkinson's decision-making capacity is intact, his request should be honored

B- Mr. Atkinson's wishes should not be honored since he is unable to verbally communicate

C- A court order is necessary because the outcome of taking him off the respirator is certain to result in his death

D- Because Mr. Atkinson designated his wife as his agent to make his medical decisions, she should make the final decision