Question

A 76-year-old woman with dementia in a care home repeatedly hits staff and other residents. She lacks capacity and is at risk of harming others. Non-pharmacological strategies have failed. According to the Mental Health Act and NICE dementia guidance, what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Refer urgently to mental health services for assessment; consider short-term antipsychotic under specialist guidance if risks are severe

Answer

Do nothing as behaviour is part of dementia

Answer

Start an antipsychotic without further assessment

Answer

Physically restrain her continuously

Answer

Transfer her to another care home without explanation

Practice question

A 76-year-old woman with dementia in a care home repeatedly hits staff and other residents. She lacks capacity and is at risk of harming others. Non-pharmacological strategies have failed. According to the Mental Health Act and NICE dementia guidance, what is the most appropriate next step?