Evaluation of psychological provision into an acute inpatient unit
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this paper is to highlight the challenges in evaluating psychological input into acute wards using more traditional methods; and also to provide an example of how it is possible to evaluate such services capturing outcomes at multiple levels.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were gathered from multiple levels including staff, patients and the wider organisation mainly using self report questionnaires. The paper looks at the impact on satisfaction, service utilisation, development of recovery principles, quality of therapeutic environment and alliance with treatment teams following the introduction of a dedicated psychology team.
Findings
The results show positive trends in patient experiences of the ward environment, alliance with treating teams and staff recovery principles, along with reduced readmission rates and length of stay in hospital. Qualitative data demonstrate the value of the service to both staff and patients.
Research limitations/implications
Much of the data do not meet the criteria for more sophisticated statistical analysis.
Originality/value
The paper provides an example of evaluation of a contemporary model of service delivery for which there is currently a limited evidence base and looks to stimulate current thinking on the practice of mental health service delivery.
Keywords
Citation
Kerfoot, G., Bamford, Z. and Amelia Jones, S. (2012), "Evaluation of psychological provision into an acute inpatient unit", Mental Health Review Journal, Vol. 17 No. 1, pp. 26-38. https://doi.org/10.1108/13619321211231798
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited