Knowledge of Section 23 of the Mental Health Act

Summary 

Objectives

Section 23 of the Mental Health Act of South Australia contains legislation entitling members of the police force to apprehend and transfer for medical opinion, members of the public who are perceived to be suffering from mental illness. The objective of this study was to evaluate knowledge of Section 23 of the Mental Health Act amongst police, ambulance, emergency medical and nursing staff.

Methods

A structured questionnaire was developed and distributed to a total of 214 police, ambulance and ED staff. The study was undertaken from December 2002 to April 2004. A combination of face-to-face and postal administration was used. Data was collated using Microsoft excel software.

Results

The overall response rate was 89%. Knowledge concerning the proscribed detention and transfer powers available to the police and ambulance officers was best amongst police officers. There was a general misconception that persons held under Section 23 must be taken to an Emergency Department. There was a general desire to ensure written documentation was produced especially amongst the ED staff. Pre-qualification training concerning Section 23 is poor especially amongst medical staff.

Conclusions

Knowledge of Section 23 of the Mental Health Act of South Australia was variable with the police officers showing the best knowledge. Teaching for medical staff concerning mental health legislation was poor. A clear desire for further teaching about mental health legislation was identified in all groups and should be enacted.

Keywords: Mental health, Emergency Department, Police, Ambulance, Section 23