Table 2 An example of summary of data from one case with coding; (1) the protection argument, (2) the solidarity argument, (3) the treatment requirement argument, (4) the clarification argument, (5) the parent support argument and (6) the everyday care argument

Care Certificate

The parents have been trying to control the patient’s eating habits, but have not been successful (5). She has had previous contact with psychiatric services, but her eating behaviour is unchanged. Has previously been admitted voluntarily (BMI 14). The patient’s older sister has anorexia.

During the spring, the patient has dramatically reduced in weight; lost 7 kg since April.

Severe anorexia nervosa. The patient acts by screaming, crying and locking herself in the bathroom. She refuses treatment and tube feeding (3). She has anorexic thoughts and delusions about body image (1).

Substantial risk to the patient’s life due to self-starvation (1). Lack of insight (3).

Other document-ation^a

Lives with her two parents and an older sister. She has two older siblings who have moved away from home.

The parents sought acute care with the patient; she was on the waiting list for treatment in Anorexia-Bulimia Clinic. The patient refuses tube feeding and totally refuses to eat (3). Care Certificate written due to severe self-starvation (1).

The patient has rapidly lost weight (1). Experiencing strong anxiety about feeding and tube feeding.