Citation

Langan C, McDonald C. Psychiatr. Bull. 2008; 32(6): 221-224.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Royal College of Psychiatrists)

DOI

10.1192/pb.bp.107.017491

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Aims and Method: Dressing in-patients in night attire during daytime is currently practised in many in-patient psychiatric units, despite the lack of evidence to support its benefit in reducing absconding or self-harm. Using a triangulation design, we investigated the prevalence of, attitudes towards and associations of this practice in an acute psychiatric in-patient setting in the Republic of Ireland.

RESULTS: Case-note review revealed a high prevalence of this practice (57%) and its significant association with involuntary admission. Nursing staff believed that using night attire was effective at reducing absconding and self-harm, and that only voluntary patients should retain the right to choose their clothes. Most patients interviewed were uncomfortable in night clothes and indicated that they should be entitled to choose what to wear. Clinical Implications: Night attire is regularly used for risk-management, despite lack of evidence supporting its efficacy and negative attitudes towards it in many patients.This practice and the reasons for its implementation deserve medical documentation.

Language: en

Keywords

adult; human; suicide; female; male; alcoholism; bipolar disorder; depression; prevalence; interview; Ireland; article; major clinical study; controlled study; questionnaire; clinical practice; mental health care; hospital admission; automutilation; patient right; nursing staff; patient attitude; medical documentation; risk management; paranoid schizophrenia; schizoaffective psychosis; medical record review; clothing; patient decision making; triangulation