Making decisions : helping people who have difficulty deciding for themselves : a guide for healthcare professionals.

  • Great Britain. Lord Chancellor's Department.
Date:
2003
Catalogue details

Licence: Open Government Licence

Credit: Making decisions : helping people who have difficulty deciding for themselves : a guide for healthcare professionals. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    Always try to consult the person and find out his or her current views. Take time to explain what is happening and the decision that needs to be made. Even if they are unable to take the decision itself, they may have views on issues that affect the decision, and on what is best for them. Try to find out the best way to communicate with the person, involving where necessary other professionals who can advise on communication methods and techniques. Family members, an independent advocate, speech and language therapists or other professionals may be able to help. Consult relatives and others, where appropriate and practical, about the person’s wishes and feelings and what would be in his or her best interests. Listen to the views of people close to the person, especially close relatives, partners, or professional carers to try and find out what the patient would have wanted. Close relatives or friends may have a better knowledge of the person’s views and wishes or may have a different but equally valid view of what may be best for them. Family members could have other records or documents which may be useful to refer to. However, the person has a right to confidentiality and may not want certain people to be involved in the decision-making process. Explore any other possible options or alternatives available for achieving the proposed outcome, and consider which option would allow most freedom for the person’s future.