Capacity

Question 1

What is mental capacity assessment?

Answer 1

• Assess someones capacity
• It is decision specific
• If it is found the person lacks capacity then decision is made in their best interests

Question 2

5 principles of capacity assessment

Answer 2

1. Assume they have capacity
2. Support them to make the decision - write things, draw things, make an effort to help them understand
3. Unwise decisions can be made r
4. If no capacity - act in their best interests (exceptions are if they have advanced directives etc to refuse treatment)
5. Must choose least restrictive option if they lack capacity

Question 3

Who do we involve in best interest decisions?

Answer 3

• MDT
• Family
• Social services

Question 4

What is the two stage test of capacity?

Answer 4

1. 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?
2. Functional - can they understand the information, retain it, weigh up risk and benefits, and communicate the decision back

Question 5

What other information do we need to check if someone is having capacity assessment?

Answer 5

• 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