skip to main content

Capacity assessment in acute illness — PARA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardProfessional practice - Capacity and consentCapacity assessment in acute illnessPARA

A patient with fluctuating delirium refuses a time-sensitive but non-emergency procedure. They cannot retain the relevant explanation despite repeated discussion at their clearest time. What is the correct decision-making process?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Support and assess capacity now then use best interests if it is lacking

Explanation lettering: D = shown as B · B = shown as D

B is correct. Capacity is specific to the decision and time: the clinician must provide practicable support, assess understanding, retention, use or weighing and communication, and record the result. If capacity is lacking, the decision must follow the Mental Capacity Act best-interests framework, use the least restrictive proportionate option and be revisited as cognition fluctuates. A mistakes expression for capacity. C gives relatives authority they do not automatically possess. D omits assessment and best interests. E ignores the risks of clinically significant delay.

Reference: GMC: decision making and consent: https://www.gmc-uk.org/professional-standards/the-professional-standards/decision-making-and-consent Mental Capacity Act 2005: section 3: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2005/9/section/3 GMC: PA registration assessment content map: https://www.gmc-uk.org/education/standards-guidance-and-curricula/standards-and-outcomes/pa-and-aa-prequalification-education-framework/pa-registration-assessment-content-map