Law, Ethics, End-of-Life Care and Leadership

Mental Health Upskilling: Dementia –Session Five

This session delves into the critical legal and ethical considerations in dementia care, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex clinical scenarios within the NHS framework.

The workshop begins with an exploration of key legal and ethical issues relevant to nursing and Allied Health Professionals (AHPs), supported by established ethical frameworks. Delegates will then examine best practices for end-of-life care, focusing on palliative care principles and the importance of family support. The session culminates in a discussion of effective leadership in dementia care, emphasising the significance of advocacy, collaboration, and local initiatives. Through case study discussions, participants will apply their learning to real-world situations, reinforcing the connection between legal, ethical, and leadership principles in dementia care.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this session, delegates will be able to:

• Identify Legal and Ethical Issues: Recognise key legal and ethical issues in dementia care that are pertinent to nursing and AHP practice in the UK.
• Apply Ethical Frameworks: Utilise ethical frameworks, such as the Four Principles of Medical Ethics, to inform decision-making in clinical situations involving individuals with dementia.
• Implement Best Practices in End-of-Life Care: Describe best practices in end-of-life care for individuals with dementia, ensuring alignment with local NHS guidelines and palliative care standards.
• Understand Leadership Roles: Define leadership roles and responsibilities specific to dementia care settings for nurses and AHPs, understanding their impact on patient outcomes.
• Utilise Evidence-Based Leadership Strategies: Implement evidence-based strategies for leadership and advocacy within dementia care, including shared decision-making, interprofessional collaboration, and continuous professional development.
• Engage with Local Initiatives: Identify and engage with local initiatives and programs aimed at improving dementia care within the locality.
• Analyse Case Studies: Review and discuss case studies related to law, ethics, and end-of-life care, applying evidence-based considerations and best practices to enhance understanding and decision-making in clinical practice.
• Facilitate Discussions: Contribute effectively to discussions about legal, ethical, and leadership challenges in dementia care, sharing insights and experiences that enhance collective learning.