Relation between bed use, social deprivation, and overall bed availability in acute adult psychiatric units, and alternative residential options: a cross sectional survey, one day census data, and staff interviews

Authors:
SHEPHERD G., et al
Journal article citation:
British Medical Journal, 25.01.97, 1997, pp.262-266.
Publisher:
British Medical Association

Examines the relation between bed use, social deprivation, and overall bed availability in acute adult psychiatric units and explores the range of alternative residential options. Results found that bed occupancy was related to social deprivation and total availability of acute beds. However, approximately one quarter of current inpatients were judged not to need continuing admission. The major reasons preventing discharge were lack of suitable accommodation; inadequate domiciliary based hospital support; and lack of long term rehabilitation places. Concludes that shortage of beds is related to both social deprivation and the overall availability of acute beds. Recommends that patients currently inappropriately placed on acute admission wards should be relocated into more suitable accommodation, either in hospital or in the community.

Subject terms:
hospitals, mental health problems, hospital discharge;
Content type:
research
Links:
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ISSN print:
1019-8350

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