[Patients' opinions on psychiatric hospital treatment]

Qualitative analysis of acute psychiatric patients' subjective opinions on the conditions and effects of their hospital treatment. Presentation of patients' expectations in this respect and the follow up of the opinion changes taking place during hospital stay.

Patients' opinions were obtained in open questions which were part of the Clients' Scale for Assessment of Treatment (CAT) performed twice during the study: one week after admission and at discharge. Answers were analyzed using a qualitative approach and odds ratio.

An overwhelming part of the respondents pointed to the positive aspects of psychiatric hospitalization (92% of those interviewed) and less than a half (42%) pointed to its negative aspects. The most important sources of positive cognitions about hospital stay were: a relationship with the ward staff, the forms of treatment introduced, relationship with other patients, overall atmosphere and sense of security and empathy. Almost 3/4 of the interviewed patients were convinced about a favourable outcome of treatment and care. Amongst elements of treatment that were helpful to the patients, pharmacotherapy was named most frequently. Patients' activity understood as occupational therapy and interpersonal contacts was an important component of the stay in the hospital and treatment. Most patients felt that no changes in the ward routine were necessary.

It is important to take into consideration the patients' opinions and expectations towards therapy, ward conditions and work organization while planning mental health care. The presented results are a part of a complex investigation and might inspire to expanded research in this field.