The impact of a changed environment on arousal levels of patients in a secure extended rehabilitation facility

Abstract

Objective: This study sought to investigate the effect of changes of the physical ward environment on levels of arousal and aggression in long-stay patients in a secure extended rehabilitation facility. Method: Seclusion episodes, extended seclusion episodes, staff report of aggressive incidents and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) measures of psychopathology were compared in the same group of long-stay rehabilitation patients over a period of 3 months before and 3 months after a move from a temporary, refurbished medical ward to a large, light-filled, purpose-built facility. Results: Fifteen patients were present during both investigation periods. The majority were male (80%) and had a..