The Mental Capacity Act 2005 provides the legal framework for assessing whether a person has the mental capacity to make decisions and defines how others can make decisions on their behalf if they lack mental capacity. Its scope is wide-ranging involving decisions regarding social care, healthcare and financial matters. Working with the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (Third Edition) provides a clear and detailed explanation of the Act. It is written in an accessible style and is designed to be of maximum use to health and social care practitioners, enabling them to utilize the Act with confidence in daily practice. There are detailed chapters on key parts of the Act including: • The principles • Advance decisions to refuse treatment • Mental capacity assessment • Office of the Public Guardian • Best interests decisions • Advocacy (IMCA) • Restraint • Deputies • Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards • Court of Protection • Lasting powers of attorney • Financial powers • Criminal offence • Codes of practice. Each chapter contains references and quotes from the most recent and relevant case law and, in addition, the codes of practice to the Act are referenced throughout. The book also provides special dedicated chapters and guidance as follows: • Consent to care and treatment and the link to the Act • Safeguarding adults and the Act • The interaction between the Mental Health Act and the Mental Capacity Act • The use of the Act by different care providers including the police, ambulance staff, dentists, GPs, prison healthcare and CCGs • Information and case law guidance on specific decisions including: ➣ Admission for care (supported living and mental health hospital) ➣ Contact with other people ➣ Contraception ➣ Do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DNACPR) ➣ End of life decisions ➣ Marriage ➣ Sexual relations ➣ Tenancy agreements ➣ Testamentary capacity (wills). The book also contains a series of summary tables, charts and diagrams designed to provide at a glance information and explanations. In addition, every chapter addresses frequently asked practice-based questions asked by health and social care staff.
