Topic: Mental Capacity Act and Code of practice

A woman has been reported wandering semi-naked on a busy road in obvious distress. The police have brought her to the local hospital because they are concerned about her welfare. A medical assessment, which she consented to, indicates that she has not been physically abused but there is significant concern regarding her mental state.

During her time in the Accident and Emergency Department she has become highly agitated and is now refusing attempts to talk about what may have happened to her. She is insisting on being allowed to leave the hospital by herself as she “has to get home for the kids”. She came into the department with no means of identification or address and all she has disclosed is that her name is Sarah.

What do you need to know more about with regards to this situation?

What specific elements of the MCA might apply?

How might your preconceptions/assumptions about this person influence you?

How would you ensure your approach is ethical and unbiased?

How do you ensure you are communicating in a way to involve the individual in the decisions made about them?

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