Occupational Therapy in Psychiatric Short-Term Hospitalization Units: Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Occupational Therapy
• Health Sciences

Background:

• Occupational therapy's role in psychiatric short-term hospitalization units is evolving.
• Understanding the research landscape is crucial for evidence-based practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map the historical development and current state of research on occupational therapy in psychiatric short-term hospitalization units.
• To synthesize evidence on interventions, outcomes, and literature trends.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
• 446 references were identified and analyzed for historical trends, publication volume, and intervention effectiveness.

Main Results:

• The scientific literature on occupational therapy in these units shows significant growth, with a notable increase in qualitative studies.
• Occupational therapy is recognized as integral to patient care, supporting diverse interventions.
• Common diagnoses include schizophrenia and depressive disorders; group interventions and spiritual dimensions positively impact recovery.

Conclusions:

• Occupational therapy plays a vital role in psychiatric short-term hospitalization, contributing to improved functionality and quality of life.
• Further research into diverse interventions, including group and spiritual approaches, is warranted to optimize patient recovery.