From Traditional Inpatient to Trauma-Informed Treatment: Transferring Control From Staff to Patient

Abstract

Mental health professionals worldwide realize the imperative for reducing inpatient restraints and seclusion. The high incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder for inpatients and the resulting symptoms support the creation of a trauma-informed approach. The objective of the current article is to describe the experience of staff in a 20-bed unit transitioning from traditional inpatient care to a trauma-informed approach. The study comprised a qualitative design using content analysis (n = 10). The patterns clustered into the following categories: changing perspective, developing collaborative relationships, implementing safety measures, and prescribing educational resources. Staff underwent a deep cultural change that subsequently won state recognition for the reduction of seclusion and restraints.