Section 3 Purpose — MRCPsych Paper B MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: D — Section 3
Section 3 is the Mental Health Act provision for admission and detention in hospital for treatment. It may last for up to 6 months initially and can be renewed for a further 6 months and then for 12-month periods. Section 2 permits admission for assessment, or assessment followed by treatment, for up to 28 days and is not renewable. Section 4 is an emergency admission for assessment lasting up to 72 hours. Section 5(2) is a doctor's or approved clinician's short-term holding power for an inpatient and also lasts no more than 72 hours. Section 17A provides for a community treatment order rather than admission to hospital for treatment. A section 3 application is supported by two medical recommendations and may be made by an AMHP or the patient's nearest relative.
Reference: Royal College of Psychiatrists. Being sectioned (in England and Wales), section 'How long does the section last?', 2015, checked 2026. https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/treatments-and-wellbeing/being-sectioned