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Volume 03
Journal of Clinical Psychology and Cognitive Science
Mental Health 2019
November 13-14, 2019
November 13-14, 2019 | London, UK
WORLD CONGRESS ON MENTAL HEALTH
Clin Psychol Cog Sci, Volume 03
A delphi survey of practitioner’s understanding of mental capacity
George Clerk
Buckinghamshire New University, UK
Purpose
: The introduction of the Mental CapacityAct and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards has provided the basis for sweeping
changes in health and social care. This study explores the views of practitioners including GPs, nurses, social workers, physio/
occupational therapists and care assistants who were presented with a variety of scenarios.
Design/methodology/approach
: The Delphi method was used to elicit the views of participants. It was aimed at generating
a consensus of opinion. This method usually works with a large sample for heterogeneous groups, so in the first round 98
participants from a range of professional groups participated.
Findings
: Participant responses demonstrated inconsistencies in their interpretation of the scenarios. Disagreements were most
profound when a patient’s decision was in conflict with clinical advice, and when to conduct a capacity assessment. Participant
responses highlight the lack of consensus in clinical, even within settings or professions. This demonstrates the complication
surrounding the MCA and its application in practice.
george.clerk@bucks.ac.uk