ABSTRACT
After reading this chapter you should be able to:
explain the rationale underlying the Mental Health Act (MHA) 1983 as amended by the 2007 MHA;
explain the aims, objectives and key changes of the 2007 amendments of the 1983 MHA by the 2007 MHA;
discuss formal and informal arrangements whereby patients with mental disorder may be admitted to a mental health hospital;
discuss legal safeguards of people with mental health problems and nurses’ and other mental health professionals’ responsibilities in ensuring these safeguards work in practice;
define ‘mental disorder’ within the terms of the MHA 1983 as amended by the 2007 Act;
use your portfolio to critically reflect on your learning from this chapter, address the student exercises built into the chapter, and reflect on the nurse's role and responsibilities when caring for people with mental health problems under the MHA.
