Mental Health Act

Question 1

How long does a) emergency detention b) short term detention c) CTO last for?

Answer 1

a) 72 hours
b) 28 days
c) 6 months

Question 2

What are you not allowed to do under an emergency detention?

Answer 2

Provide treatment without patient’s consent (it is for assessment only)

Question 3

What are the criteria for an emergency detention?

Answer 3

1. Presence of a mental disorder
2. Significantly impaired decision making ability (SIDMA)
3. Risk of harm to self or others
4. Detention is necessary (e.g. patient refuses informal admission, is actively trying to leave)

Question 4

What is specifically excluded by the Act? (2)

Answer 4

Patient causing fear or alarm to others, or acting as no prudent person would
Intoxication caused by drug or alcohol misuse

Question 5

Who, ideally, should be contacted if an emergency detention is being considered?

Answer 5

Mental Health Officer

Approved Medical Practitioner- to assess whether a short term detention is more suitable

Question 6

How long are nurses able to hold patients prior to assessment ?

Answer 6

3 hours