Posted by yxibow on December 6, 2008, at 19:44:37
In reply to Re: Locked wards 'harm patients', posted by SLS on December 6, 2008, at 7:28:59
> I believe in keeping locked wards for those patients who are in need of allowing someone else manage their survival for them because their illness makes it difficult for them to manage it for themselves. I was in a locked ward for severe psychotic mania on two occasions. It is the only environment in which I would stay the length of time necessary to find a treatment to get me past the acute psychotic episode. Unfortunately, they couldn't do anything for the depression.
>It depends on the hospital and current standards of care. I agree that for those who cannot manage themselves to a severe point should be considered for a locked ward only if their safety and the safety of others is in jeopardy.
Otherwise, if the hospital has an unlocked wing for those voluntarily admitting themselves, I think it says to the patient that they should probably stay to be helped but if they are deemed not a risk, they can check out on their own nature.
Today, with the expense of medical care, being admitted into a hospital, any kind, but equally a psychiatric ward because of disparity of insurance even if there is theoretical parity for some people today, unless one is sure they will conduct a suicidal plan or feels that they absolutely need medical care to get off of or adjust medication, a hospital is not the best place to be.
It lacks familiar faces and familiar voices and removes people from contacts with peers for the most part. Yes, I've heard arguments that this may be favorable in some cases because family life is not as favorable as my situation, maybe I project, but its something not to just be taken lightly. Its really a 911 situation for the most part.Because in some cases, one might as well be in a hotel or an outpatient clinic, if they're trying to escape a situation in a non-violent manner and need solitude.
-- Jay
poster:yxibow
thread:865930
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20081204/msgs/867117.html