Capacity to provide informed consent among adults with bipolar disorder

Journal of Affective Disorders
Christina C KleinStephen M Strakowski

Abstract

Identifying correlates of capacity to provide informed consent among individuals with bipolar disorder is essential for patient protection. As part of a clinical trial involving approved, standard treatments, we investigated relationships between clinical characteristics and capacity to provide informed consent in adults with bipolar disorder using the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Clinical Research (MacCAT-CR). After administering the MacCAT-CR, continuing participants in the trial were capable of and provided informed consent. Trained, board-certified psychiatrists administered the MacCAT-CR to potential study participants (N = 50) after they provided informed consent, but prior to initiation of study procedures. Higher Schedule for Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS) scores were significantly correlated with worse MacCAT-CR Understanding and Appreciation (p < 0.04) subscale scores; lower Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores and higher Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S) scores were significantly correlated with worse Reasoning and Understanding subscale scores (p < 0.03); and patients with comorbid substance use disorders (SUD) had better Appreciation and Reasoning subscale scores (p < 0.05). ...Continue Reading

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by manic and/or depressive episodes and associated with uncommon shifts in mood, activity levels, and energy. Discover the latest research this illness here.