Using a tool that prompts exploration of decision making abilities
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Using an assessment tool to support capacity assessments with people with an acquired brain injury in the context of admission to hospital or a care home: A feasibility study
IRAS ID
272714
Contact name
Guillermo Perez Algorta
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Lancaster University
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
n/a, n/a
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 15 days
Research summary
Almost one million people are living with the effects of a brain injury in the UK. Sometimes people who have experienced a brain injuries have restrictions placed on them when they go into hospital, or in a care home, to keep them safe or to make sure they get support. These restrictions can include someone sitting with them for long periods of time, medication that has sedating effects or locked doors within the building that the person can’t open on their own. Sometimes the amount of restriction used amounts to a deprivation of the person's liberty.
This is a feasibility study that will trial a tool designed to support decision-making. The tool is intended to be used by professionals whose role is to decide if someone with a brain injury can consent to their care arrangements. The tool is designed to prompt consideration of psychological factors that could be relevant to clients in order to enhance the accuracy and thoroughness of professional decisions. The tool is not intended to replace existing practice or procedures and will not determine client treatment or care.
A group of fifteen decision makers will try out the tool for two months. They will be recruited from rehabilitation units and through relevant professional forums and social media. Focus groups will then be held to explore how participants used the tool, whether it was easy to use and if it was useful. We will run at least two focus groups with between two and six people in a group. Groups will last for approximately 90 minutes. If anyone can not attend a group we will interview them individually about their experiences for approximately 60 minutes. Findings will be shared formally and informally to help influence and shape practice.
REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/HRA/0857
Date of REC Opinion
22 Apr 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion