Abstract
Answer D. Lasting power of attorney
The lasting power of attorney (LPA) can be used to authorise family members or trusted friends to make decisions for patients when they lack capacity to make decisions for themselves. Those authorised by the LPA can make decisions on that patient’s behalf, as long as they are in the best interests of the patient. When there is concern over ulterior motives or disagreement within a family and a lasting power of attorney is not already present, an independent mental capacity advocate is appointed and can be used to support decisions made in the patient’s best interest.
InnovAiT article: Assessing mental capacity. DOI: 10.1177/17557380211031607.