QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Incorrect - Disagreeing with a management plan is not a sign of diminished capacity. If the patient cannot clearly articulate why they disagree with the management plan, or cannot remember the plan, then their capacity may be reduced. However, disagreeing is not evidence of diminished capacity in itself.
10008437
c
The patient disagrees with the proposed management plan
QuestionChoice
Incorrect - Disagreeing with the proposed course of action, or stating a preference for a different investigation, is not a sign of diminished capacity in itself. As long as patients can retain, understand and weigh information, as well as communicate their decision, they are entitled to refuse (but not demand) treatment.
10008438
d
The patient would rather have an MRI as they have heard it is more accurate
QuestionChoice
Incorrect - The ability to communicate a decision is a key component of a capacity assessment. However, writing is a form of communication. Provided the patient fulfils other components of the capacity assessment, this is not a sign of diminished capacity.
10008439
e
The patient writes out their decision rather than saying it
QuestionChoice
Incorrect - An individual making a decision which is not in their best interests is not a sign of diminished capacity, provided they can retain, understand and weigh information, as well as communicate their decision.
10008436
b
The patient makes a decision that is not in their best interest
QuestionChoice
Correct - A key feature of capacity is the ability of the patients to understand and weigh the information presented to them. If a patient is disorientated to place and cannot appreciate the importance of having such an investigation, they are unlikely to have capacity to refuse treatment.
10008435
a
The patient appears confused
Concept
Chapter
2693
4670
Key Principles of the Mental Capacity Act
Topic
184
Ethics and Law
14234
A 19-year-old man is brought to Accident and Emergency by his friends after falling over and hitting his head on a night out. On assessment he seems confused and not entirely sure of where he is. His friends confirm that this is highly unusual for him.

It is decided that he will need a CT head to rule out an intracranial bleed. Upon hearing this, the patient becomes agitated and threatens to leave the hospital. He doesn't appear to understand attempts to explain why the scan is necessary.

Which of these is a sign the patient lacks capacity?
a