Exploring patients' experience of activities on a mental health inpatient ward: a service evaluation

Abstract

Objective: Multidisciplinary care is provided on mental health inpatient wards to those experiencing acute mental distress. Providing a range of activities during an inpatient stay is seen to be central to the multidisciplinary care provided in this setting. However, patients' experience of inpatient mental health care has highlighted a lack of activities being provided. The aim of this project was to evaluate the provision of activities in a mental health inpatient setting from the perspective of patients.<br/> Method: Qualitative methods were adopted for this service evaluation whereby focus groups were undertaken with current patients on six acute mental health wards in one hospital in the UK.<br/> Results: Key themes highlighted that patients valued undertaking activities on the ward and viewed these activities both as a way to promote their wellbeing during their inpatient admission and also to support their preparation for discharge from the ward.<br/> Conclusions and implications for practice: Patients value the opportunity to undertake a range of activities during their inpatient admission and view activities as contributing to their recovery and in supporting discharge. Services would benefit from providing a varied activities programme to support recovery and delivery of care in this setting.