Delpachitra, Seth (2011) Enforcing medical treatment under the Involuntary Treatment Order: an ethical dilemma? Australian Medical Student Journal, 2 (1). pp. 56-57.

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Abstract

Introduction: This case report aims to address the ethical issues and obligations of enforcing medical care onto psychiatric patients under the Queensland Mental Health Act 2000 Involuntary Treatment Order (ITO), and will also present Queensland's legal standpoint and limitations on providing this care under the Act.

Case Presentation: PF, a 47 year old male with a history of depression and recent diagnosis of Gleason 7 prostate cancer was admitted to the acute mental health unit following an intentional overdose of alprazolam. His risk to himself prompted the application of an ITO. Although PF was due for investigation of his recently diagnosed prostate cancer, he refused following his suicide attempt.

Conclusion: Although an ITO allows for enforcement of psychiatric treatment, no legal allowances exist for enforcement of medical care. In situations where medical conditions may be indirectly detrimental to a person's mental health, ethically appropriate techniques should be employed.

Item ID:	17387
Item Type:	Article (Case Study)
ISSN:	1837-1728
Date Deposited:	29 Jun 2011 06:03
FoR Codes:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111714 Mental Health @ 100%
SEO Codes:	92 HEALTH > 9204 Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) > 920410 Mental Health @ 100%
Downloads:	Total: 3
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