Occupational therapy interventions provided for service users while in seclusion within a medium secure mental health unit: a service evaluation

Background/Aims Service users who have spent time in seclusion describe it as a negative experience, viewing it as punishment. Although occupational therapists work within these settings, there is limited research and documentation of interventions aimed at reducing occupational deprivation in seclusion. A service evaluation was conducted at a medium secure adult mental health unit to better understand the current practices of occupational therapists working in seclusion. Methods A bespoke tool was developed to capture occupational therapy interventions within a 12-month timeline. Results Data showed that there were 31 interventions provided across 300 days of seclusion for 16 patients. Therapy lasted between 5 and 45 minutes involving a range of adapted interventions and resources appropriate for positive risk taking. Conclusions Despite creative and adaptive interventions identified, provision of occupational therapy appeared sporadic and restricted by a 5-day service. This illustrates the need for specialist training and guidelines to support an integrated and consistent approach.