Citation

Keown P, Tacchi MJ, Niemiec S, Hughes J. Psychiatr. Bull. 2007; 31(8): 288-292.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Royal College of Psychiatrists)

DOI

10.1192/pb.bp.106.012054

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Aims and method: To investigate changes to admissions, compulsory detentions, diagnosis, length of stay and suicides following introduction of crisis resolution home treatment and assertive out-reach teams.

RESULTS: There was a 45% reduction in admissions with an increase in the median length of stay from 15.5 to 25 days. Bed occupancy fell by 22%.The number of suicides remained constant. Detentions under sections 2 and 3 of the Mental Health Act 1983 increased whereas those under sections 5(2) and 5(4) declined. Clinical implications: The introduction of crisis and assertive outreach teams was followed by a reduction in admissions, particularly short admissions. The impact differed according to gender (reduction in female bed occupancy).This and the increased length of stay need to be considered when determining the number of acute psychiatric beds needed.

Language: en

Keywords

adult; human; suicide; female; male; United Kingdom; crisis intervention; article; major clinical study; mental health care; hospital admission; length of stay; mental health service; psychiatric diagnosis; home care; hospital bed utilization; involuntary commitment; assertive training