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Price O, Armitage CJ, Bee P, Brooks H, Lovell K, Butler D, Cree L, Fishwick P, Grundy A, Johnston I, Mcpherson P, Riches H, Scott A, Walker L, Papastavrou Brooks C. De-escalating aggression in acute inpatient mental health settings: a behaviour change theory-informed, secondary qualitative analysis of staff and patient perspectives. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:548. [PMID: 39107709 PMCID: PMC11301843 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05920-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND De-escalation is often advocated to reduce harm associated with violence and use of restrictive interventions, but there is insufficient understanding of factors that influence de-escalation behaviour in practice. For the first time, using behaviour change and implementation science methodology, this paper aims to identify the drivers that will enhance de-escalation in acute inpatient and psychiatric intensive care mental health settings. METHODS Secondary analysis of 46 qualitative interviews with ward staff (n = 20) and patients (n = 26) informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework. RESULTS Capabilities for de-escalation included knowledge (impact of trauma on memory and self-regulation and the aetiology and experience of voice hearing) and skills (emotional self-regulation, distress validation, reducing social distance, confirming autonomy, setting limits and problem-solving). Opportunities for de-escalation were limited by dysfunctional risk management cultures/ relationships between ward staff and clinical leadership, and a lack of patient involvement in safety maintenance. Motivation to engage in de-escalation was limited by negative emotion associated with moral formulations of patients and internal attributions for behaviour. CONCLUSION In addition to training that enhances knowledge and skills, interventions to enhance de-escalation should target ward and organisational cultures, as well as making fundamental changes to the social and physical structure of inpatient mental health wards. Psychological interventions targeting negative emotion in staff are needed to increase motivation. This paper provides a new evidence-based framework of indicative changes that will enhance de-escalation in adult acute mental health inpatient and PICU settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen Price
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England.
| | - Christopher J Armitage
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, Nelson Street, Manchester, M13 9NQ, England
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Penny Bee
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Helen Brooks
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Karina Lovell
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Debbie Butler
- Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, England
| | - Lindsey Cree
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Paul Fishwick
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Andrew Grundy
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Isobel Johnston
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Peter Mcpherson
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7NF, England
| | - Holly Riches
- Merseycare NHS Foundation Trust, Kings Business Park, Prescot, L34 1PJ, England
| | - Anne Scott
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, England
| | - Lauren Walker
- School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, Northampton Square, London, EC1V 0HB, England
| | - Cat Papastavrou Brooks
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS, England
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Cobbaert L, Hay P, Mitchell PB, Roza SJ, Perkes I. Sensory processing across eating disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of self-report inventories. Int J Eat Disord 2024; 57:1465-1488. [PMID: 38511825 DOI: 10.1002/eat.24184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review investigated the extant literature regarding the relationship between eating disorder diagnoses and sensory processing as measured by validated and reliable self-report inventories. Increasing evidence highlights the role of sensory processing in cognitive functions. Sensory processing is implicated in mental-ill health, including eating disorders (ED) and body image disturbances. However, the pathophysiological underpinnings of sensory processing, encompassing exteroception and interoception, in relation to ED remain underexplored. METHOD We included studies involving participants aged 15 years or older with an eating disorder diagnosis confirmed by semi-structured or structured interviews. We further limited inclusion to articles using validated and reliable self-report instruments to measure sensory processing. Our meta-analysis focused on studies using the interoceptive awareness subscale from the second version of the Eating Disorder Inventory. We used the Critical Appraisal checklist for quasi-experimental studies to assess the quality of included articles. RESULTS There were 19 studies that met our inclusion criteria. Most studies showed moderate-to-high quality. Anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) were associated with heightened exteroception. Moreover, people with AN reported a heightened sense of taste compared to those with BN. Our meta-analysis comprising 10 studies, 19 samples, and 6382 participants revealed that AN (binge-purge subtype) and BN were associated with increased interoceptive difficulties compared to AN (restrictive subtype) or binge-eating disorder. DISCUSSION Overall, this review emphasizes the need for a deeper investigation into sensory processing, spanning both exteroception and interoception, in relation to ED. This may prove important for individualizing person-centered care. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE How people process internal, for example, hunger, and external, for example, taste and sensations is known to influence cognition and mental-ill health, including ED and body image disturbances. However, the ways in which sensory processing may contribute to ED are incompletely understood. We found that individuals with AN or BN experienced heightened exteroception, while people with an eating disorder characterized by purging reported increased interoceptive difficulties. These patterns could inform the development of more personalized treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Cobbaert
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillipa Hay
- School of Medicine, Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
- Mental Health Services, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Philip B Mitchell
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sabine J Roza
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Iain Perkes
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Molloy L, Chidarikire S, Pullman J, Havilla S, Patton D, Beckett P. The Impact of Sensory Modulation Interventions on Practice in Acute Inpatient Mental Health Settings: A Meta-Ethnography. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2024; 45:580-588. [PMID: 38810221 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2024.2341034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
This review explores the transformative impact of sensory modulation interventions in acute inpatient mental health care setting utilising meta-ethnography. The methodology by Noblit & Hare guided the approach to creating the review. Searches of articles published within the previous 10 years were conducted in Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. Searches aimed to identify rich qualitative data on the area of sensory modulation interventions and acute inpatient mental health care. Seven articles were selected for inclusion and a reciprocal translation synthesis was undertaken. Sensory modulation interventions emerged as a key alternative to traditional inpatient practices, including seclusion and restraint and the use of PRN psychotropic medication. It introduces a new dimension within care strategies that emphasise individual preferences and care plans that empower individuals. Sensory modulation interventions serve as an effective means to de-escalation that promotes shared responsibility between staff and individuals in care. The review highlights this practice as a departure from coercive practices and biomedical interventions, promoting meaningful therapeutic engagement. Our findings show that sensory modulation interventions have the potential to create a culture shift in acute inpatient mental health settings towards person-centred, recovery-orientated, trauma-informed clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Molloy
- School of Nursing, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | | | - John Pullman
- Social work, Australian College of Applied Professions, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sizwile Havilla
- Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District Mental Health service, Shellharbour, Australia
| | - Declan Patton
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Royal College of Surgeons, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul Beckett
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Rodríguez-Labajos L, Kinloch J, Nicol L, Grant S, O'Brien G. Impact of the design of adult mental health inpatient facilities on healthcare staff: a mixed methods systematic review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e074368. [PMID: 38448069 PMCID: PMC10916155 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mental health inpatient facilities are increasingly focusing on creating therapeutic, person-centred care environments. However, research shows that this focus may have unintended consequences for healthcare staff. Designs that do not pay attention to staff needs may risk contributing to stress, burnout, job dissatisfaction and mental exhaustion in the work environment. This systematic review aims to identify and synthesise current research on the design factors of adult mental health inpatient facilities that impact healthcare staff. DESIGN A mixed method systematic review was conducted to search for empirical, peer-reviewed studies using the databases CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed and Web of Science from their inception up to 5 September 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal checklists were used to assess the methodological quality of the eligible studies. Data were extracted and grouped based on the facility design factors. RESULTS In our review, we included 29 peer-reviewed empirical studies that identified crucial design factors impacting healthcare staff in adult mental health inpatient facilities. Key factors included layouts providing optimal visibility, designated work and respite areas, and centrally located nursing stations. Notably, mixed perceptions regarding the benefits and challenges of open and glass-enclosed nursing stations suggest areas requiring further research. Facilities in geographically remote locations also emerged as a factor influencing staff dynamics. Additionally, although only supported by a limited number of studies, the significance of artwork, sensory rooms for respite, appropriate furniture and equipment, and access to alarms was acknowledged as contributory factors. CONCLUSION Through the synthesis of existing research, this review identified that the design of mental health facilities significantly impacts staff well-being, satisfaction, performance and perception of safety. Concluding that, in order to create a well-designed therapeutic environment, it is essential to account for both service users and staff user needs. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022368155.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joanne Kinloch
- NHSScotland Assure, Research Service, NHS National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Louise Nicol
- NHSScotland Assure, Research Service, NHS National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Susan Grant
- NHSScotland Assure, Procurement, Commissioning and Facilities, NHS National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Geraldine O'Brien
- NHSScotland Assure, Research Service, NHS National Services Scotland, Glasgow, UK
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Hudon A, Rosca MA, La Charité-Harbec O, Allard JM, Borduas Pagé S. The Use of Alternative Rooms in Forensic and Regular Psychiatric Units: A Scoping Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2432. [PMID: 37685466 PMCID: PMC10487261 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11172432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Emotional regulation, distress and relational conflicts often occur during hospitalization and rehabilitation on psychiatric units, especially in patients suffering from severe and persistent mental disorders. While widely used in children and geriatric patients, little literature exists on the use and outcomes of alternative rooms in the context of forensic and regular psychiatric units for adult patients. Considering the scarcity of the literature on alternative use, this study is motivated by the following research question: what are the main uses and outcomes of alternative rooms in the context of forensic and regular psychiatric units? The main objective of this study is to conduct a scoping review of the use and outcomes of alternative rooms for the context of psychiatric inpatients. (2) Methods: A systematic search was performed in the electronic databases of MedLine, Web of Science, PsycNet (PsycINFO) and Google Scholar from their inception dates until 2022. (3) Results: A total of nine studies were analyzed. Sensory, multisensory rooms, Snoezelen, and comfort rooms are the types of alternative rooms discussed in these studies. Distress and anxiety reduction, increase in self-esteem, impact on seclusion rates, patient-staff communication and alliances, heart and respiration rate reduction, and improvement of alexithymia were identified among the main uses and outcomes of these rooms. (4) Conclusions: The scarcity of literature available to draw information from for this review and possible impact on improving patient outcomes and quality of treatment in psychiatric units opens the door to future studies to better understand the efficacy of such rooms. Research into the ideal implementation tactics of such rooms, long-term outcomes, and the influence on diverse patient demographics could be areas of improvement in the use of alternative rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Hudon
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada
| | - Maria Alexandra Rosca
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada;
| | - Olivier La Charité-Harbec
- Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1N 3M5, Canada; (O.L.C.-H.); (J.-M.A.)
| | - Jeanne-Marie Allard
- Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1N 3M5, Canada; (O.L.C.-H.); (J.-M.A.)
| | - Stéphanie Borduas Pagé
- Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1N 3M5, Canada; (O.L.C.-H.); (J.-M.A.)
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Haig S, Hallett N. Use of sensory rooms in adult psychiatric inpatient settings: A systematic review and narrative synthesis. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2023; 32:54-75. [PMID: 36082841 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Reducing the use of restrictive interventions within psychiatric inpatient settings is a global priority. There are many strategies which may support the prevention of violence before escalation into more severe incidences. Sensory rooms have been identified as one such intervention, aiding patients to emotionally regulate and reduce distress, with a growing body of academic literature interested in whether sensory rooms can ultimately impact incidences of patient violence and the use of restraint, seclusion, and other restrictive practices. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify how effective sensory rooms are at reducing patient violence and restrictive interventions within adult psychiatric inpatient settings. Eighteen studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. There is a lack of evidence as to whether sensory rooms are effective at reducing seclusion, restraint, or violence. They are, however, likely to support a reduction in patient distress. Patient and staff experiences suggest sensory rooms support emotional regulation, promote self-management, and positively impact the overall patient admission experience and ward environment. Further research is needed to identify what works, for who and in what circumstances in relation to the design of sensory rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nutmeg Hallett
- School of Nursing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Proterra K, Ehrlich S, Romani PW. Training direct-care staff to implement sensory integration strategies on a psychiatric inpatient unit. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC NURSING 2021; 35:150-156. [PMID: 34689377 DOI: 10.1111/jcap.12357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM Despite the importance of sensory integration therapy on psychiatric inpatient units, there continues to be a paucity of trained providers that can delivery this service to patients. METHOD This study evaluated components of a training program to teach nurses and direct-care staff appropriate use of sensory integration strategies. Using the research team as confederates, we collected data on how three direct-care staff used sensory integration strategies across two conditions and with a patient admitted to the unit. Next, we implemented the didactic-only training, which provided education for when to use different aspects of the sensory room. Finally, we transitioned to a condition in which feedback supplemented the didactic training. FINDINGS Before training and following the Didactic Only Training condition, accuracy was low for all participants. All three participants' accuracy with using sensory integration strategies improved and maintained when they implemented the strategies with a patient after completing the combined intervention. We were able to use the combined intervention to improve two additional direct-care staff's accuracy. CONCLUSIONS Staff training incorporating didactic training plus feedback was most effective for training appropriate use of sensory integration strategies. We also discuss the importance of having performance-based measures to track occurrence of important skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Proterra
- Pediatric Mental Health Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Shana Ehrlich
- Pediatric Mental Health Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Patrick W Romani
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Abstract
Autistic adults commonly experience sensory reactivity differences. Sensory hyperreactivity is frequently researched, whilst hyporeactivity and seeking, and experiences across domains, e.g., vision, are often neglected. Therefore, we aimed to understand more about the sensory experiences of autistic adults. We conducted a mixed-methods study, co-produced with stakeholders; recruiting 49 autistic adults who completed an online survey. Firstly, quantitative results and content analysis enhanced our understanding of sensory input/contexts associated with sensory hyperreactivity, hyporeactivity, and seeking across modalities. Secondly, thematic analysis developed themes relating to 'Outcomes', 'Control', 'Tolerance and management', and 'The role of other people', informing a theoretical model of sensory reactivity differences in autistic adults. These findings have implications for support services and improving quality of life for autistic adults.
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Oostermeijer S, Brasier C, Harvey C, Hamilton B, Roper C, Martel A, Fletcher J, Brophy L. Design features that reduce the use of seclusion and restraint in mental health facilities: a rapid systematic review. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e046647. [PMID: 34233981 PMCID: PMC8264870 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Increasing efforts are being made to prevent and/or eliminate the use of seclusion and restraint in mental health facilities. Recent literature recognises the importance of the physical environment in supporting better outcomes in mental health services. This rapid review scoped the existing literature studying what physical design features of mental health facilities can reduce the use of seclusion and physical restraint. DESIGN A rapid review of peer-reviewed literature. METHODS Peer-reviewed literature was searched for studies on architectural design and the use of restraint and seclusion in mental health facilities. The following academic databases were searched: Cochrane Library, Medline, PsycINFO, Scopus and Avery for English language literature published between January 2010 and August 2019. The Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tool was used to assess the quality of included studies. RESULTS We identified 35 peer-reviewed studies. The findings revealed several overarching themes in design efforts to reduce the use of seclusion and restraint: a beneficial physical environment (eg, access to gardens or recreational facilities); sensory or comfort rooms; and private, uncrowded and calm spaces. The critical appraisal indicated that the overall quality of studies was low, as such the findings should be interpreted with caution. CONCLUSION This study found preliminary evidence that the physical environment has a role in supporting the reduction in the use of seclusion and restraint. This is likely to be achieved through a multilayered approach, founded on good design features and building towards specific design features which may reduce occurrences of seclusion and restraint. Future designs should include consumers in a codesign process to maximise the potential for change and innovation that is genuinely guided by the insights of lived experience expertise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Oostermeijer
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine Brasier
- Social Work and Social Policy, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carol Harvey
- Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bridget Hamilton
- Centre for Psychiatric Nursing, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cath Roper
- Centre for Psychiatric Nursing, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Martel
- Melbourne School of Design, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Justine Fletcher
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lisa Brophy
- Social Work and Social Policy, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Hedlund Lindberg M, Samuelsson M, Perseius KI, Björkdahl A. The experiences of patients in using sensory rooms in psychiatric inpatient care. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2019; 28:930-939. [PMID: 30931543 DOI: 10.1111/inm.12593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The use of sensory rooms and similar sensory approaches in psychiatric inpatient settings is becoming increasingly common. In sensory rooms, patients can choose different sensory stimulating items that may help regulate distress and enhance well-being. Outcomes are often measured as effects on patients' self-rated distress and rates of seclusion and restraint. The subjective experiences of patients using sensory rooms have been less explored. This paper presents a qualitative study of the experiences of 28 patients who chose to use sensory rooms on seven different types of psychiatric inpatient wards. Data were collected by individual patient interviews and by texts written by patients. A qualitative content analysis resulted in four categories: emotional calm, bodily calm, empowerment, and unexpected effects. A majority of the participants described several positive experiences, such as enhanced well-being, reduced anxiety, increased self-management, and enhanced self-esteem. Our findings align with previous research that has shown similar positive patient experiences, and support the use of sensory rooms as part of person-centred care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Hedlund Lindberg
- Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Mats Samuelsson
- Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | | | - Anna Björkdahl
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden.,Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Psykiatri Södra Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
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