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Lasting power of attorney — DGM MCQ

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ModerateEthics and lawLasting power of attorneyDGM

An 86-year-old man with dementia lacks capacity for a proposed care-home move. His niece says she has health and welfare lasting power of attorney and brings documentation. There is no advance decision refusing care. Current medicines include memantine. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: D — Check the registered LPA and involve the attorney in the decision

A valid registered health and welfare LPA should be involved when the person lacks capacity for the decision. Ignoring the attorney, relying on undocumented relatives, confusing property and health powers, and bypassing capacity assessment are incorrect. Proxy authority depends on the type of LPA and the decision at hand.

Reference: Mental Capacity Act 2005; NICE NG108