If consent cannot
be readily established then a social care worker should act on an understanding
of individual’s health and wellbeing status. A social care worker must understand the
individual’s needs and preferences. They should understand whether the
individual has mental capacity to make decision or not. They must have all
relevant information available and explain properly so that the individual can
understand and take the decision. They can also contact family members,
advocate and power of attorney for gaining consent. If an adult with mental capacity
makes decision to refuse care or treatment at any point, then the decision must
be respected and service procedures can be stopped. In the following
circumstances care can be provided without consent -
- An individual doesn’t have mental capacity to make decision about their care and treatment due to inability to understand, retain and use information.
- If an individual requires emergency treatment or care to save their life and they are unable to give consent.
