Experiencing Seclusion in a Forensic Psychiatric Setting: A Phenomenological Study.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychiatry
• Healthcare Environments
• Patient Experience

Background:

• Restlessness, aggression, and violence are common in psychiatric settings, necessitating restrictive measures like seclusion.
• Seclusion is widely used despite being intended as an exceptional intervention.
• Limited research exists on the lived experience of seclusion rooms in forensic settings from patient and staff perspectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experience of seclusion rooms in a Canadian forensic psychiatric environment.
• To understand the impact of seclusion on both patients and nursing staff.
• To inform potential improvements in seclusion practices and patient care.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative, phenomenological research study.
• Conducted in a Canadian forensic psychiatric setting.
• Federally funded investigation.

Main Results:

• The "structure of place" significantly influences the experience of seclusion for both patients and nursing staff.
• "Place" encompasses more than physical space, including the lived body's experience and interactions.
• Secluded patients are not merely "objects" but individuals with complex experiences.

Conclusions:

• The physical and experiential aspects of seclusion rooms profoundly affect individuals within forensic psychiatric care.
• Recognizing the "structure of place" can enhance therapeutic interventions and patient well-being.
• Further research into the lived experience of seclusion is vital for humane and effective psychiatric care.