Nurses' detention powers and medical response to their use.

AIM

The aim was to study the factors associated with use of Section 5(4) of the Mental Health Act 1983 and the medical response.

METHOD

A retrospective study was carried out over a year in all psychiatric inpatient units in Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust. This trust caters to the mental health needs of the Leicestershire and Rutland population.

RESULTS

Various factors have been identified with use of Section 5(4) and the medical response. Nurses are in the forefront for psychiatric emergencies at inpatient units and they have used this power to detain patients even in regular working hours.

CONCLUSION

The doctor's opinion concurs with the nurse's decision closely. It is vital that this power is retained in future mental health acts.