Ethical practice and legal responsibility for duly authorized officers: achieving a balance.

In New Zealand the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act (1992) has influenced the practice of psychiatric nurse acting as duly authorized officers by challenging traditional perceptions of the nurse-patient relationship. This paper describes the legal role and responsibilities of the duly authorized officer, and reflects on ethical principles that affect decision making using an example from practice. Performing legislative responsibilities within a bicultural context in a health climate driven by economic rationalism is problematic, and concern is raised to ensure a body of psychiatric nursing experience for the future.