sectioning_mha_flashcards
What is the purpose of sectioning under the Mental Health Act?
To admit someone who will not be admitted voluntarily.
The MHA Act and Assessment
Mental Health Act 1983, amended by the Mental Health Act 2007 (further amendment in 2012):
o Used when no capacity
o Used only regarding mental health conditions
o Provides powers to admit people living in the community to hospital by force o For all ages
Principle of sectioning
Sectioning is always a last resort – should always aim for an informal admission where possible (talk to patient, bring in relative etc)
If, after this, section if:
o they do not agree
o AND they pose an immediate risk to themselves or others then
Who is specifically excluded from being sectioned under the Mental Health Act?
Patients under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
What is Section 2 of the Mental Health Act?
Admission for assessment for up to 28 days, not renewable.
Who makes the application for Section 2 and on whose recommendation?
An Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) or rarely the nearest relative (NR) on the recommendation of 2 doctors.
What is the role of a doctor under Section 2?
One of the doctors should be ‘approved’ under Section 12(2) of the Mental Health Act (usually a consultant psychiatrist).
Can treatment be given against a patient’s wishes under Section 2?
Yes, treatment can be given against a patient’s wishes.
What is Section 3 of the Mental Health Act?
Admission for treatment for up to 6 months, can be renewed.
Who makes the application for Section 3 and what are the requirements for the doctors?
An AMHP along with 2 doctors, both of whom must have seen the patient within the past 24 hours.
Can treatment be given against a patient’s wishes under Section 3?
Yes, treatment can be given against a patient’s wishes.
What is Section 4 of the Mental Health Act?
A 72-hour assessment order.
When is Section 4 used?
Used as an emergency when a Section 2 would involve an unacceptable delay.
Who makes the application for Section 4?
A GP and an AMHP or NR.
What often happens upon arrival at the hospital under Section 4?
It is often changed to a Section 2 upon arrival at the hospital.
What is Section 5(2) of the Mental Health Act?
A patient who is a voluntary patient in hospital can be legally detained by a doctor for 72 hours.
What is Section 5(4) of the Mental Health Act?
Allows a nurse to detain a patient who is voluntarily in hospital for 6 hours.
