A hospital inpatient who is voluntary attempts to leave and is judged a risk to himself. Which short-term power can a doctor use to hold him on the ward?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Section 5(2) of the Mental Health Act for up to 72 hours

  1. Step 1: A doctor in charge can hold an informal inpatient while an assessment is arranged.
  2. Step 2: Section 5(2) allows 72 hours, and a nurse can use section 5(4) for up to 6 hours.
Answer
Section 5(2) of the Mental Health Act for up to 72 hours.
Why not the others: Section 3 for six months, applied by one doctor alone on the ward: Section 3 needs an approved mental health professional and two doctors. No power exists: Holding powers exist. Section 136, applied by a nurse on the ward when he tries to leave: Section 136 is a police power for public places.

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