Abstract
The effects of interventions within a high-care psychiatric ward, based upon the principles of a therapeutic community, were evaluated. Interventions included an enhanced physical environment, improved communication, clear rules and aims, and improved safety procedures. A Ward Atmosphere Scale, an Attitude Scale, and interviews with staff indicated improvements in ward atmosphere and staff attitudes. Ward records showed a substantial reduction in the use of seclusion for aggressive patient behaviour, and a 62% reduction over 2 years in short-term staff illness. The authors conclude that similar interventions could be used to improve the functioning of other psychiatric wards.
MeSH terms
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Attitude of Health Personnel
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Communication
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England
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Health Facility Environment
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Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
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Hospital Units / organization & administration*
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Humans
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Interprofessional Relations
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Job Satisfaction
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Morale
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Nurse-Patient Relations
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Nursing Evaluation Research
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Nursing Staff, Hospital / education
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Nursing Staff, Hospital / organization & administration
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Nursing Staff, Hospital / psychology
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Program Evaluation
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Psychiatric Department, Hospital / organization & administration*
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Psychiatric Nursing / education
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Psychiatric Nursing / organization & administration*
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Quality Assurance, Health Care / organization & administration*
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Safety Management / organization & administration
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Surveys and Questionnaires
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Therapeutic Community*