Section 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.

Code 1981, § 31-36A-3, enacted by Ga. L. 1999, p. 485, § 5.