Capacity Flashcards
1
Q
What is mental capacity assessment?
A
- Assess someones capacity
- It is decision specific
- If it is found the person lacks capacity then decision is made in their best interests
2
Q
5 principles of capacity assessment
A
- Assume they have capacity
- Support them to make the decision - write things, draw things, make an effort to help them understand
- Unwise decisions can be made r
- If no capacity - act in their best interests (exceptions are if they have advanced directives etc to refuse treatment)
- Must choose least restrictive option if they lack capacity
3
Q
Who do we involve in best interest decisions?
A
- MDT
- Family
- Social services
4
Q
What is the two stage test of capacity?
A
- Diagnostic - do they have disorder of the brain/mind that can affect decision making eg delirium, is it treatable? so is it worth waiting until they have capacity to make decision or is it urgent?
- Functional - can they understand the information, retain it, weigh up risk and benefits, and communicate the decision back
5
Q
What other information do we need to check if someone is having capacity assessment?
A
- Do they have an appointed power of attorney for health?
- Any advanced decisions?
- Who is the decision maker - eg POA
- Speak with family about MCA if need to
6
Q
A