The use of seclusion in psychiatric hospitals in the Newcastle area

Between 1981 and 1984, the frequency with which seclusion was used decreased in Newcastle. Secluded patients were younger, more often male, unmarried, unemployed, and admitted formally, and there was an association with certain diagnoses. Most seclusions occurred early in the hospital stay, mainly in the daytime, especially at mealtimes, and first seclusions were the longest. Violent incidents were usually associated with non-psychotic patients, and staff were the commonest victims. Medication used was major tranquillisers or paraldehyde.