Implementation of a Sensory Modulation Room on an Acute Care Psychiatric Unit

Abstract

The application of sensory modulation approaches in psychiatric mental health hospital settings is growing in recognition and implementation internationally. This treatment modality offers alternatives to use of more restrictive measures such as seclusion, restraint, and forced medications. The aim of this quality improvement project was to assist an acute care unit with creation and implementation of a sensory modulation room. Planned change in this facility required administrative and clinical staff support and input, formal education and training in proper sensory room use, and development of policy and procedures. A comfort room use log was completed by each patient pre and post-use to determine levels of distress. All patients (n=8) indicated significant improvement in mood states after room use. A post-implementation staff- belief questionnaire was completed by thirty-two of the sixty-six trained staff (48% return rate) which affirmed positive attitudes about room use benefit to patients and staff. Additionally, eight-weeks prior to the implementation process, five security alert codes were called for behavioral management while during this same time-frame of implementation, only two were called indicating a 60% reduction. Findings revealed obvious benefit of this quality improvement project to all stakeholders.