Those people held under mental health legislation the principle of consent continue to apply for condition not related to the mental disorder. Nurses who are involved in the care or treatment of patients detained under the relevant mental health legislation, must ensure that they are aware of the circumstances and safeguards needed for providing treatment and care without consent (NMC, 2011)

The similarity between Adult and Child branch

In both Adult and Mental Health settings seeking consent is part of a respectful relationship, regardless of the patient’s age, gender, culture, background and race. Therefore, consent may be withdrawn at any time, even after signing a consent form.. Another similarity is that when asking consent the healthcare professional has to identify whether the person is able to understand what is being said and the person’s state of mind. This is where patients are competent and free from mental illness. Communication difficulties may arise if a patient’s first language is not English, or with those who are deaf. In a case where a patient is deaf, the healthcare professional would have to communicate with them in sign language. Gaining consent is a way to promote the health of patients. In term of life and death the healthcare professional must act kindly and considerately for the child’s health if they are unable to get in touch with child’s parents. (Department of Health 2003)

CONCLUSION

Seeking consent is something that is important in the healthcare sector. It is important that all healthcare professionals realise the importance of following the procedure at all times as otherwise there can be legal implications. Respect on behalf of both patient and professional should lie at the heart of every decision taken. Clarity of explanation is important in order to allow the patient or someone acting on their behalf, to make an informed choice. Those involved in healthcare have a serious responsibility in ensuring that the information they offer patients is factually accurate and takes into account any differences in opinion, race, religion age or other factors. Consent increases patients’ power to make an informed choice about their situation and treatment and puts safeguards in place for both the professionals and the patient involved which should lead to the best course of action.