Deanna P Sams1, David Garrison2, Joanne Bartlett2. 1. Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York. deanna_sams@urmc.rochester.edu. 2. Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York.
Abstract
PROBLEM: Child and adolescent psychiatric units serve the highest risk, most vulnerable populations in the mental health delivery system. This article describes the integration of a strength-based approach with a traditional, medical model of psychiatric care on an acute inpatient unit. A strength-based framework allows for increased focus on exploring patients' goals, strengths, relationships, skills, and family communication within the hospital setting. METHODS: The process of integration of strength-based care is described, followed by discussion of the implementation and evaluation of interventions, including mindfulness, family movie, narrative, and animal-assisted therapies. FINDINGS: Innovative interventions led to improvement in patient symptoms, unit culture, and patient, family, and staff satisfaction. CONCLUSION: A strong emphasis on strength-based, multidisciplinary treatment has enhanced patient care, as the goals of acute inpatient admission are broadened to include more than diagnosis and medication management.
PROBLEM: Child and adolescent psychiatric units serve the highest risk, most vulnerable populations in the mental health delivery system. This article describes the integration of a strength-based approach with a traditional, medical model of psychiatric care on an acute inpatient unit. A strength-based framework allows for increased focus on exploring patients' goals, strengths, relationships, skills, and family communication within the hospital setting. METHODS: The process of integration of strength-based care is described, followed by discussion of the implementation and evaluation of interventions, including mindfulness, family movie, narrative, and animal-assisted therapies. FINDINGS: Innovative interventions led to improvement in patient symptoms, unit culture, and patient, family, and staff satisfaction. CONCLUSION: A strong emphasis on strength-based, multidisciplinary treatment has enhanced patient care, as the goals of acute inpatient admission are broadened to include more than diagnosis and medication management.