The management of substance misuse on psychiatric inpatient wards — a policy to promote effective good practice

Abstract

In a study of one area in London, 48.9% of clients admitted to mental health wards with psychotic illnesses had co-existing drug and alcohol misuse problems (Phillips & Johnson, 2003). In a more recent survey undertaken in Manchester, 56% of acute inpatient ward clients and 90% of psychiatric intensive care unit clients were 'dually diagnosed' with co-existing conditions (Schulte & Holland 2008).

The policy and practices of New South Wales drug treatment providers in responding to the possession of illicit substances on premises

“…This study's findings support the assertion of Wilson et al that leadership, policy and procedures and, in some cases, training is required to support the workforce to respond to issues of duty of care, legality and workplace safety. The policy outlined by Wilson and colleagues provides a theoretical and practical framework for staff to balance their therapeutic role with the ‘custodial’ role associated with undertaking personal searches and confiscating substances . Learning from studies in this area from the UK, the underlying principle of policy development in this area should be to engage the client in harm reduction and treatment, rather than enter the criminal justice system.…”