QUestion 91

Question 1

AWI what is it

Answer 1

• Capacity always presumed until proven otherwise
• Incapacity means incapable of:
  o Acting
  o Making decisions
  o Communicating decisions – may need to adapt methods
  o Understanding decisions – ask pt to explain to you what you have discussed
  o Retaining memory of decisions – ask at another appointment

Question 2

prinicples of AWI act

Answer 2

o Must benefit the patient
o Must be the minimum necessary intervention
o Must take into account the wishes of the adult
o Consultation with relevant others
o Encourage the adult to exercise ‘residual capacity’

Question 3

power of attorney of AWI act

Answer 3

o Granted by the adult whilst he/she still has capacity
o Powers only come into effect when the adult is incapable of decision making – must take into account the adults wishes
o Continuing PoA – only covers financial affairs and property
o Welfare PoA – matters relating to health and personal welfare

Question 4

who can consent for dental tx

Answer 4

o Patients with capacity
o Welfare powers of attorney
o Welfare guardians
o Medical and dental* practitioners under section 47 of AWI Act (general authority to treat)
 Relatives who are not any of these cant consent on adults behalf!

Question 5

• General authority to treat:?

Answer 5

o Provided a valid certificate of incapacity is issued for the treatment and provided principles are observed, treatment may be given
 Can be issued by GMP, consultant, dentists, nurses, optometrists*
o Medical treatment can always be given in emergency situations for those who cannot consent