BACKGROUND: Requests for evaluation of mental capacity in general hospitals have increased in frequency. OBJECTIVE: The authors sought to determine the interventions required to respond adequately and assess the initiating circumstances. METHOD: Questionnaires completed by psychiatric consultants were analyzed, and chart reviews were completed. RESULTS: Capacity evaluation alone resolved 32% of the requests; 31% required an evaluation plus additional interventions; 37% did not require a capacity evaluation. Patients threatening to leave against advice, and/or refusing treatments or procedures represented 64% of requests. Consultants successfully resolved 88% of such cases. CONCLUSION: A mental capacity evaluation alone was insufficient to resolve two-thirds of problems eliciting requests. Consultation-liaison psychiatrists can use these evaluations as teaching opportunities.
BACKGROUND: Requests for evaluation of mental capacity in general hospitals have increased in frequency. OBJECTIVE: The authors sought to determine the interventions required to respond adequately and assess the initiating circumstances. METHOD: Questionnaires completed by psychiatric consultants were analyzed, and chart reviews were completed. RESULTS: Capacity evaluation alone resolved 32% of the requests; 31% required an evaluation plus additional interventions; 37% did not require a capacity evaluation. Patients threatening to leave against advice, and/or refusing treatments or procedures represented 64% of requests. Consultants successfully resolved 88% of such cases. CONCLUSION: A mental capacity evaluation alone was insufficient to resolve two-thirds of problems eliciting requests. Consultation-liaison psychiatrists can use these evaluations as teaching opportunities.
Authors: E B Mukaetova-Ladinska; G Cosker; M Coppock; M Henderson; Y Ali Ashgar; A Hill; A Scully; D Robinson; K Sells; S Brotherton; C Lowthian Journal: Nurs Res Pract Date: 2011-07-11