Patient concerns about seclusion: developing a leaflet.

Abstract

Seclusion continues to be used as a last resort in many acute in-patient mental health facilities, hence, mental health nurses must consider a range of strategies to improve seclusion practice. This article reviews selected literature to glean relevant information to provide to patients regarding seclusion protocols, rationales, and aims. Some postseclusion debriefing, nurse education, and organizational monitoring issues are also briefly discussed. The provision of supplementary written patient information about seclusion processes has the potential to decrease patient anxiety and fear. This initiative involves collaboration with consumer consultants to creatively develop effective solutions to some long-standing patient-identified problems associated with the experience of seclusion.