The Mental Capacity Act 2005: Review of mental capacity assessment in people with proximal femoral fracture

Abstract

Aims and method: To ascertain whether patients with proximal femoral fractures were being correctly assessed in line with the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Fifty people admitted with proximal femoral fractures were audited to assess whether they had given consent to treatment in accordance with the Act. A Mental Capacity Act 2005 guidance and assessment form was then introduced accompanied by staff training. A re-audit was undertaken to assess the impact. Results: The initial audit showed that only one person (2%) had been properly assessed. The re-audit demonstrated that the use of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 assessment form ensured correct assessment. Clinical implications: Our findings suggest the form is a useful tool in the documentation and assessment of an individual's capacity under the Mental Capacity Act. Declaration of interest: None.