Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

NG108/4

Question

Using mental capacity assessment tools to assess capacity:- What is the accuracy and/or effectiveness, cost effectiveness and acceptability of mental capacity assessment tools that are compliant with the Mental Capacity Act 2005?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

Why this is important:- There is a lack of evidence from the UK on the effectiveness and acceptability of approaches to capacity assessment that are in line with the meaning of mental capacity as outlined in the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Although the guideline committee reviewed some evidence evaluating the accuracy of specific tools, these are not necessarily compatible with the definition of mental capacity.
There is a need for high-quality mixed methods studies that evaluate the accuracy or effectiveness of mental capacity assessment tools that are compliant with the Act. The controlled effectiveness component will ideally include 3 arms: usual care, usual care plus mental capacity assessment tools, and usual care plus support with enhanced assessment tools. Studies should also include a qualitative component that explores whether such tools and approaches are acceptable to people using services and valued by practitioners.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Decision-making and mental capacity

Number

NG108

Date issued

October 2018

Other details