5.1.1 Temporary mental incapacity

Where a patient has harmed him/herself and is able to communicate, an assessment of their mental capacity should be made as a matter of urgency. Should the patient be judged incapable of making a treatment decision, they may be treated on the basis of temporary incapacity under the Adult with Incapacity Act. Similarly, patients who have attempted suicide and are unconscious should be given emergency treatment if any doubt exists as to either their intentions or their capacity when they took the decision to attempt suicide.

5.1.2 Patients with capacity

Competent patients do have the right to refuse life-sustaining treatment (other than treatment for mental disorder under the Mental Health Act), both at the time it is offered and in the future. If a competent patient has harmed him or herself and refused treatment, a psychiatric assessment should be obtained. If the use of the Mental Health Act or the Adults with Incapacity Act is not appropriate, then their refusal of treatment must be respected. This said, attempts should be made to encourage the patient to accept help and treatment.