A mixed methods study into the effectiveness of sensory rooms in reducing agitation levels in a psychiatric intensive care unit: Sensory rooms and reducing agitation in PICU

Stephanie Haig*, Christopher Wagstaff

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Background: Reducing incidences of violence, and the use of restrictive interventions within psychiatric intensive care units (PICUs), is a priority
nationally. One method for reducing violence and aggression from escalating in PICUs is sensory rooms. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of
sensory rooms as an alternative strategy to manage agitation levels in a PICU and understand the patient and staff experiences of using sensory rooms as an
alternative intervention to standard approaches for agitation reduction.

Method: A mixed methods approach collected data over six months using an observational rating scale pre and post-sensory room, and conducting nine semi-
structured interviews with patients and staff.

Results: 71 patient contacts recorded, there was a statistically significant difference in pre and post-sensory room agitation ratings (p<0.001), with 66%
(n = 47) experiencing a reduction in agitation rating post-usage. The sensory room was used as both a proactive and reactive strategy to manage agitation.
Five themes emerged from the interviews: the sensory room supports emotional regulation, improves the patient’s experience, develops therapeutic relationships,
and offers an alternative agitation management strategy; however, it can be an underused resource due to access limitations.

Conclusion: Staff and patients had positive experiences using a sensory room to manage agitation; it offers a safe space away from the busy ward environment.
Several different factors impact staff using the intervention. Findings provide considerations for services when developing sensory rooms in PICUs, to ensure
they are established as a reliable alternative for the management of agitation.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Psychiatric Intensive Care
Early online date28 Aug 2024
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 28 Aug 2024

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