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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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Mills C, Tracey D, Nash S, Gorkin R. Perceptions of a virtual reality sensory room for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Disabil Rehabil 2024; 46:565-574. [PMID: 36727413 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2169773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mental ill health and sensory processing difficulties often limit participation in everyday life for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Interventions using technology such as virtual reality (VR) are increasingly accessible and may mitigate these difficulties. Understanding what contributes to the successful implementation of novel interventions is important for future use and evaluation. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of implementing a VR sensory room for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities, their carers and support staff and to explore future iterations of the product and process. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirteen stakeholders who participated in a pilot trial of a VR sensory room were interviewed. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. RESULTS Eleven themes were identified which indicated that adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities found the VR sensory room to be mostly acceptable and enjoyable with usage largely consistent. Individual variation and support requirements were highlighted for each user. Future use may require modifications to the headset, in-built customisation options as well as buy-in and training for support staff. CONCLUSIONS The VR Sensory room is a promising tool to support adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities and results warrant further scaled research into the impact of this tool on outcomes for adults with disabilities.Implications for RehabilitationWhilst adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities may experience sensory processing difficulties which impact their everyday life, there is a paucity of interventions to address these difficulties.Implementation studies offer the opportunity to explore how evidence-based interventions may be implemented to facilitate the best outcomes.A Virtual Reality Sensory Room may offer an innovative alternative to a traditional sensory room for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities where implementation is well supported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Mills
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia
| | - Danielle Tracey
- School of Education, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia
| | - Simone Nash
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert Gorkin
- SMART Infrastructure Facility, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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Forsberg K, Sutton D, Stjernswärd S, Bejerholm U, Argentzell E. Experiences of participating in a group-based sensory modulation intervention for mental health service users. Scand J Occup Ther 2024; 31:2294767. [PMID: 38113875 DOI: 10.1080/11038128.2023.2294767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with mental health issues often experience difficulties with sensory modulation affecting occupational engagement. Research conducted in inpatient units has shown positive effects of individual sensory modulation interventions, however, research on experiences of group-based interventions in outpatient units is limited. Hence, a group-based sensory modulation intervention was adapted and tested within Swedish mental health outpatient units. AIM To explore the experiences of participating in a group-based sensory modulation intervention for service users in mental health outpatient units. MATERIAL AND METHODS This qualitative study involved interviews with 25 informants who had participated in the intervention. The interview data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Synthesis of the interviews resulted in one overarching theme of 'Embodied awareness facilitates improved coping and sense of self' organised into four themes: (1) 'Developing embodied awareness and strategies', (2) 'Taking control of everyday life', (3) 'Creating a stronger sense of self', and (4) 'From alienation to belonging'. CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE The informants experienced the intervention to provide new embodied coping strategies that had previously been neglected. This understanding may enrich occupational therapy practice in new ways to support service users' engagement in occupations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Forsberg
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Mental Health, Activity and Participation (MAP), Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry, Habilitation and Aids, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Daniel Sutton
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Department of Occupational Science and Therapy, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sigrid Stjernswärd
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Health-promoting Complex Interventions, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Bejerholm
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Mental Health, Activity and Participation (MAP), Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry, Habilitation and Aids, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Elisabeth Argentzell
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, Mental Health, Activity and Participation (MAP), Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry, Habilitation and Aids, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Bailliard A, Lee B, Bennett J. Polysensoriality and Aesthetics: The Lived Sensory Experiences of Adults with Mental Illness. Can J Occup Ther 2023; 90:103-113. [PMID: 36632011 DOI: 10.1177/00084174221145811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background. Research in neuroscience shows that adults with schizophrenia or related psychotic disorders experience atypical sensory processing (e.g., deficits in sensory gating and mismatch negativity). Despite significant evidence proving these biomarkers are common among adults with serious mental illness, it is unclear how their sensory experiences impact their occupations in daily life (i.e., real-world implications of atypical sensory processing). Purpose. To explore how the lived sensory experiences of adults with psychotic disorders affect their occupations. Method. We used Walking with Video, photo-elicitation, and semi-structured interviews to study how the lived sensory experiences of adults with psychotic disorders (N = 6) relate to their occupations. Informed by a phenomenological perspective, we analysed data from semistructured interviews, and undertook analyses through iterative rounds of coding to develop themes and two cycles of group reflective practices to identify researcher biases and assumptions. Findings. Analyses revealed the following themes: polysensoriality, embodied aesthetics of everyday life, habits of sensing and sensory anchors, and active sensory beings. Implications. In clinical contexts, occupational therapists should carefully consider the situatedness of sensory experiences while avoiding assumptions that sensory preferences and aversions mechanistically generalize across contexts and occupations.
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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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Machingura T, Shum D, Lloyd C, Murphy K, Rathbone E, Green H. Effectiveness of sensory modulation for people with schizophrenia: A multisite quantitative prospective cohort study. Aust Occup Ther J 2022; 69:424-435. [PMID: 35441391 PMCID: PMC9544468 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current research evidence suggests that people with schizophrenia have sensory processing difficulties. Sensory modulation has growing evidence for use in this population. This study aimed to evaluate the extent to which health, social, cognitive, and occupational functioning outcomes were impacted by sensory modulation interventions for people with schizophrenia. METHODS A prospective observational cohort study using a waitlist control design was used in two large hospital and health services in Queensland, Australia. The study recruited patients who used sensory modulation (n = 30) across the two hospitals and those who did not use sensory modulation interventions as a control (n = 11). Results were analysed using a series of planned comparisons including independent and paired t-tests, and mixed ANOVA was used whenever statistically indicated. The analysed measures were pre- and post-intervention scores. RESULTS This study found no statically significant differences between the control and intervention groups at both pre- and post-intervention. However, analysis of results from within the intervention group showed statistically significant improvements between pre- and post-test scores on distress, occupational functioning, and health and social functioning but not on sensory processing and global cognitive processing. Further analysis of results from this study, compared with those from an earlier study on the general population showed significant differences in Low Registration and Sensation Avoiding, as measured by the Adult/Adolescent Sensory Profile, between participants with schizophrenia and those without schizophrenia. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence to suggest that sensory modulation interventions can be complementary to standard care when utilised appropriately in clinical settings. Findings also suggest that the sensory profile of people with schizophrenia is different to that of the general population and this may have clinical implications. Further longitudinal research is needed with larger and randomised samples, using more targeted measures to better explore effectiveness of sensory modulation interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawanda Machingura
- Faculty of Health Sciences & Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - David Shum
- Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Chris Lloyd
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Karen Murphy
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Evelyne Rathbone
- Faculty of Health Sciences & Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Heather Green
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
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Machingura T, Lloyd C, Murphy K, Goulder S, Shum D, Green AH. Views about sensory modulation from people with schizophrenia and treating staff: A multisite qualitative study. Br J Occup Ther 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/0308022620988470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Current non-pharmacological treatment options for people with schizophrenia are limited. There is, however, emerging evidence that sensory modulation can be beneficial for this population. This study aimed to gain insight into sensory modulation from the user’s and the treating staff’s perspectives. Method A qualitative content analysis design was used. Transcripts from occupational therapists ( n=11) and patients with schizophrenia ( n=13) derived from in-depth semi-structured interviews were analysed for themes using content analysis. Results Five themes emerged from this study: Service user education on the sensory approach is the key; A variety of tools should be tried; Sensory modulation provides a valued treatment option; There are challenges of managing perceived risk at an organisational level; and There is a shortage of accessible and effective training. Conclusion People with schizophrenia and treating staff had congruent perceptions regarding the use of sensory modulation as a treatment option. The findings suggest that sensory modulation can be a valued addition to treatment options for people with schizophrenia. We suggest further research on sensory modulation intervention effectiveness using quantitative methods so these results can be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawanda Machingura
- Bond University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Griffith University, School of Applied Psychology, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chris Lloyd
- Griffith University, School of Applied Psychology, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia
| | - Karen Murphy
- Griffith University, School of Applied Psychology, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - David Shum
- Griffith University, School of Applied Psychology, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - and Heather Green
- Griffith University, School of Applied Psychology, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia
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Williamson P, Ennals P. Making sense of it together: Youth & families co-create sensory modulation assessment and intervention in community mental health settings to optimise daily life. Aust Occup Ther J 2020; 67:458-469. [PMID: 32648269 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Occupational therapists work collaboratively with young people experiencing mental ill-health to enable meaningful occupational participation in daily life. Sensory modulation is used as a means of developing self-regulation and enabling occupational participation. Published literature on sensory modulation in mental health settings is primarily located within acute inpatient settings and focuses on self-regulation. Little is known about the use of sensory modulation within community settings to enhance occupational participation in daily lives of people with mental-ill health. This study investigated the experiences of young people and their families who engaged in sensory modulation assessment (Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile) and intervention (between one and twelve sessions) as part of community mental health care at a large area mental health service in Melbourne, Australia. METHODS The qualitative study used naturalistic inquiry methodology involving semi-structured interviews with six young people and three families. Nine interview transcripts were thematically analysed to elicit the experiences of sensory modulation assessment and intervention, and how this may influence daily life. RESULTS Thematic analysis revealed that young people and their families' positive experiences of sensory modulation were underpinned by processes of co-creation: (a) knowing yourself; (b) understanding 'the why': developing shared reasons for engaging in sensory modulation; (c) creating comfort; (d) creating connection; and (e) constantly learning. Sensory modulation supported occupational participation in young peoples' daily lives in the areas of sleep, study, relationships, self-care, independent living, being in the world, and doing new things. CONCLUSION Young people and their families valued the process of co-creating sensory modulation assessment and intervention to enhance occupational participation. Results revealed that sensory modulation assessment and intervention was optimised when it was a process of co-creation. Future research should investigate the effectiveness of sensory modulation in enhancing occupational participation in these domains that influence daily life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Priscilla Ennals
- School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia.,Neami National, Preston, Vic, Australia
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