Client and Family Satisfaction With the Experience of Psychiatric Hospitalization

This presentation is part of : Mental Health Service Delivery

Kathleen LeClear O'Connell, PhD, RN, School of Health Sciences, Indiana University - Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, IN, USA and Catherine Duchovic, RN, BS, Behavioral Health & Family Studies Institute, Indiana University - Purdue University Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne, IN, USA.

Objective: The purpose of this research was to identify factors related to satisfaction or dissatisfaction with psychiatric hospitalization from both the client/consumer and family members’ perspective. This research was jointly planned with the researchers and the local chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) and that collaboration will also be discussed. Design: This exploratory study incorporated both quantitative and qualitative methods. Population: All NAMI members who had been hospitalized due to psychiatric symptoms and their family members in a combined rural and urban area of a Midwestern state. Variables: This study explored client and family perspectives related to respect, communication, teaching, environment, admissions and dismissals in the context of a psychiatric hospitalization Methods: Hospitalization satisfaction surveys were sent to client/consumers and family members of NAMI in northeast Indiana. Surveys were completed anonymously and returned to the researchers. Quantitative data was analyzed for significance. Qualitative data was analyzed for trends and themes. Findings: The majority of client/consumers who responded to the survey were between the ages of 41 – 60 years of age, with 55% of respondents female and 45% male. Most (76%) had more than one hospitalization for a psychiatric diagnosis, with a mean of 4. Family responders were most likely to be female, over age 40, and a parent or spouse. Qualitative responses revolved most strongly around the need for follow-up and assistance after hospitalization. Further findings of statistical significance were also found and will be discussed. Conclusions: This research identified factors related to satisfaction or dissatisfaction with psychiatric hospitalization in this population. Implications: Findings may assist nurses and hospitals in planning hospital care that is more effective and positive for both client/consumers and families.

Learning Objective #1: Discuss the areas of concern related to psychiatric hospitalization for both consumer and family respondents in this study
Learning Objective #2: Identify the process used in this study for a research collaboration between an advanced practice nurse and a community support organization