Abstract
Covert administration of medication has always been controversial and has not always been specified in care plans, it should be limited to incapacitated patients where the treatment is necessary and in best interests, or else authorised by mental health legislation or an appropriate court declaration. A lot of nursing and HCA practice that involves putting medication in food or drink may not actually be disguising it from the patient at all. The NMC guidelines do not refer to the Mental Capacity Act and are due for review, meanwhile the Maudsley Prescribing Guidelines are recommended. It is vital that HCAs and APs who administer or assist with medication understand their legal and ethical authority for hiding it, and reviewing the reasons with the wider team.
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