Admission to a Psychiatric inpatient unit can be a stressful time for patients and families. Patient's and carers have advised staff on the ward that there is a lack of information available regarding the policies and procedures in the unit. This includes information on ward rounds, leave arrangements and discharge planning. The aim is to enhance the ward-based experience of patients and their families by attempting to explore areas to improved, particularly about providing information that will help them to understand the process of admission to an inpatient Psychiatric as well as what to expect throughout their admission and on discharge.

A questionnaire was distributed to all the ‘current’ in-patients and their families. The questionnaire was kept anonymous to encourage everyone to contribute honestly. Data were collected from 20 patients admitted to the ward from 01.02.2022 to 30.04.2022. Data were analysed and shared with the rest of the team to identify gaps in provision of information.

Half of patients reported not receiving an introduction to the ward on admission and being unaware of the roles of different staff members. 70% of the patients and relatives were aware of the facilities of the ward and how to use them. There was a mixed response about satisfaction with running of Multidisciplinary Team Meetings(MDTs), availability of name nurse and medical team and information provision around MDTs, leave arrangement, discharge planning and follow up.

This quality improvement project has highlighted inconsistencies in the quality of and satisfaction with information provision during admission and has helped to recognised areas that needed to be improved. Several steps have been taken to improve quality of care such as copies of care plan and "Welcome to Tissington" booklet have provided. Discharge pathways and name board displayed in reception. Ward round appointments given to patients in advance and named nurse to support patients in writing MDT meeting plan. Invite families to attend care plan reviews, ward rounds and discharge meeting in person/via online. Additional craft items made available for activity, and exercise and walking groups have been introduced. Additional time made available for carers to speak with ward staff. Recruitment of Psychologist and occupational therapists now in post and Carers meeting to commence.

It is important to repeat this quality improvement project regularly to monitor the progress and get more information from families and patients to improve the quality of care given by the ward.