Improving physical health monitoring and interventions in a learning disabilities forensic psychiatric secure service

Patients in psychiatric inpatient settings are at increased risk of developing physical health complications due to the structure of inpatient wards, the metabolic side-effects of antipsychotic medications and socioeconomic factors. Robust physical health monitoring and interventions are paramount in reducing this health inequality.

To improve the quality of physical health interventions in the ward environment and empower patients to follow healthy lifestyle guidance to reduce their risk of metabolic syndrome.

Patient weight and waist circumference data were collected at baseline and weekly throughout the 8-week intervention period. A questionnaire was recorded from baseline to week-5 to assess patient understanding. Two Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were completed: (1) Series of weekly psychoeducation sessions and group exercise and (2) Implementation of healthy living diaries.

Our data did not demonstrate any definitive impact upon the waist circumference and weight of participants. However, analysis of the questionnaires showed a consistent trend in knowledge improvement.

Whilst our aim of reducing patient weight and waist circumference was not realised, there was a significant impact on participant's knowledge, demonstrating a subjective benefit of our interventions. Our project also highlighted inconsistencies in physical health measurements and data collection, providing vital information for further quality improvement measures.