capacity assessment scenario

  • Unwell ascites patient refuses further treatment → to decide if this is appropriate or not + has capacity
  • MH - not under section
  • Patient wishing to leave + does not have capacity
  • Cellulitis/other infection on IV antibiotics - wanting to go home + has capacity

capacity to refuse treatment/informed consent generic

  • Wash hands, introduce self
  • Confirm patient identity
  • elicits concerns
  • check understanding of the intent of treatment
  • explain what treatment will entail
  • explain consequences of not having treatment
  • explain alternatives to treatment (if any)
  • Perform a capacity assessment
    • able to understand information given
    • able to retain information long enough to make a decision
    • able to weigh up information
    • communicate decision
  • respect confidentiality
  • agree on management plan