§ 31-36A-3 - Definitions
               	 		
O.C.G.A.    31-36A-3   (2010)
   31-36A-3.    Definitions 
      As used in this chapter, the term:
      (1)  "Absence of a person authorized to consent" means that:
            (A)  After  diligent efforts for a reasonable period of time, no person authorized  to consent under the provisions of Code Section 31-36A-6 has been  located; or
            (B)  All such authorized  persons located have affirmatively waived their authority to consent or  dissent to admission to or discharge from a health care facility or  placement or transfer to an alternative health care facility or  placement, provided that dissent by an authorized person to a proposed  admission, discharge, or transfer shall not be deemed waiver of  authority.
      (2)  "Unable to consent" means that an adult is unable to:
            (A)  Make rational and competent decisions regarding his or her placement options for health or personal care; or
            (B)  Communicate such decisions by any means.