Using the Theoretical Domain Framework to understand what helps and hinders the use of different sensory approaches in Australian psychiatric units: A survey of mental health clinicians

Lisa Wright; Sally Bennett; Pamela Meredith

doi:10.1111/1440-1630.12889

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Using the Theoretical Domain Framework to understand what helps and hinders the use of different sensory approaches in Australian psychiatric units: A survey of mental health clinicians

Journal article

Open access

Peer reviewed

Using the Theoretical Domain Framework to understand what helps and hinders the use of different sensory approaches in Australian psychiatric units: A survey of mental health clinicians

Lisa Wright, Sally Bennett and Pamela Meredith

Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, Vol.70(5), pp.599-616

2023

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12889

PMID: 37259982

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Abstract

Theoretical Domain Framework

inpatient care

mental health

sensory approaches

Background/aim: Although sensory approaches are recommended to relieve distress and agitation and reduce the use of seclusion and restraint, many Australian psychiatric units have struggled to sustain their practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the barriers and enablers influencing the use of different sensory approaches across one health region in Australia and to obtain recommendations for strategies to improve their use. Method: This cross-sectional survey was informed by the Theoretical Domain Framework. Likert scale questions considered barriers and enablers to the use of non-weighted sensory interventions, weighted modalities, sensory rooms, and sensory assessments/plans. Open-ended questions explored participant concerns and recommendations to improve the use of sensory approaches. Results: Participants (n = 211) were from nursing, allied health, medical, and peer support staff across inpatient psychiatric units. Factors most frequently identified as enablers for using sensory approaches were beliefs of positive benefits to consumers (e.g. decreasing distress and agitation); belief it was within the staff's role; and knowledge of the approaches. Limited time was the most common identified barrier. Factors statistically associated with more frequent use were knowledge, skills, confidence, availability, and easy access to sensory tools/equipment. Only 30% of participants were concerned about potential risks of sensory approaches, with this risk mitigated through adequate supervision and thorough risk assessment. Recommendations to improve practice included improved access to, and maintenance of, equipment, more training, and increased staffing. Conclusion: This study revealed how barriers and enablers vary for different sensory approaches and how these factors impact their frequency of use in psychiatric units. It provides insights into staff recommendations to improve the use of sensory approaches in one health region in Australia. This knowledge will lead to the development of implementation strategies to address identified barriers and improve the use of sensory approaches in psychiatric units.

Details

Title: Using the Theoretical Domain Framework to understand what helps and hinders the use of different sensory approaches in Australian psychiatric units: A survey of mental health clinicians
Authors: Lisa Wright (Corresponding Author) - The University of Queensland
Sally Bennett (Author) - The University of Queensland
Pamela Meredith (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health - Occupational Therapy
Publication details: Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, Vol.70(5), pp.599-616
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Date published: 2023
DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12889
ISSN: 1440-1630; 0045-0766
PMID: 37259982
Copyright note: This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.© 2023 The Authors.Australian Occupational Therapy Journal published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Occupational Therapy Australia.
Grant note: Prince Charles Hospital Foundation
Organisation Unit: University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health - Occupational Therapy; Cancer Research Cluster
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99735296802621
Output Type: Journal article

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