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Mental capacity to consent to treatment in anorexia nervosa

Authors :
Elzakkers, Isis F F M
Danner, Unna N
Hoek, Hans W
van Elburg, Annemarie A
Experimental psychopathology
Leerstoel Ridder
Leerstoel Elburg
Experimental psychopathology
Leerstoel Ridder
Leerstoel Elburg
Source :
BJPsych Open, 2(2), 147-153. ROYAL COLL PSYCHIATRISTS, BJPsych Open, 2(2), 147. Cambridge University Press, BJPsych open
Publication Year :
2016

Abstract

BackgroundMental capacity to consent to treatment in anorexia nervosa is a neglected area in clinical decision-making.AimsTo examine clinical and neuropsychological parameters associated with diminished mental capacity in anorexia nervosa.MethodAn explorative study was conducted in 70 adult female patients with severe anorexia nervosa. Mental capacity to consent to treatment was assessed by experienced psychiatrists. Further measurements included the MacCAT-T (to assess mental capacity status), a range of clinical measures (body mass index (BMI) and comorbidity) and neuropsychological tests assessing decision-making, central coherence and set-shifting capacity.ResultsDiminished mental capacity occurs in a third of patients with severe anorexia nervosa and is associated with a low BMI, less appreciation of illness and treatment, previous treatment for anorexia nervosa, low social functioning and poor set shifting.ConclusionsAssessment of diminished mental capacity in anorexia nervosa requires careful evaluation of not only BMI, but also the degree of appreciation of illness and treatment, history and the tendency to have a rigid thinking style.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20564724
Volume :
2
Issue :
2
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
BJPsych Open
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....cbbde1c5e50bdf3efd5112b613ccd91a