Staff perception of case discussion groups on a UK inpatient psychiatric ward: a mixed method service evaluation

Staff and patient experiences of inpatient psychiatric wards can be negative, with staff suffering increasingly higher rates of burnout and aggression, and patients dissatisfied with the lack of therapeutic climate. The need for improved support for both has long been identified, yet many group types are ill defined and their effectiveness is unclear. In response, clinical psychologist-facilitated case discussion groups (CDGs) have been implemented across limited wards within an NHS Foundation Trust to develop staff formulation and reflective skills and provide dual peer and formal support.

This evaluation aimed to assess staff perceptions of CDG impact on staff outcomes and patient care.

Twenty permanent unit staff members of a female acute inpatient ward participated in this mixed method evaluation. Staff were administered a two-part questionnaire. A subset of participants then completed a semi-structured qualitative interview.

CDG were rated extremely positively for both staff and patient care outcomes. Staff recognised increased patient contact, reduced restraint incidents, and higher levels of confidence in their role. Suggested improvements to CDG include a more formal review of action plans.

Further research is required to explore patient perceptions of CDG and explore impact across different ward types.