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Psychiatric Intensive Care Units: a Literature Review

Author

Listed:
  • Len Bowers

    (City University, Philpot Street, London E1 2EA, UK, L.Bowers@city.ac.uk)

  • Debra Jeffery

    (City University, Philpot Street, London E1 2EA, UK)

  • Hulya Bilgin

    (Florence Nightingale College of Nursing, Istanbul University, Turkey)

  • Manuela Jarrett

    (City University, Philpot Street, London E1 2EA, UK)

  • Alan Simpson

    (Research Assistant, City University, Philpot Street, London E1 2EA, UK)

  • Julia Jones

    (City University, Philpot Street, London E1 2EA, UK)

Abstract

Background: Psychiatric Intensive Care Units (PICU) have been part of most inpatient psychiatric services for some time, although information about their functioning and outcome has not previously been collated. Aim: To conduct a systematic literature review to assess the current state of knowledge about such services. Method: A search of electronic databases was undertaken, followed by obtaining additional references from items obtained. Results: Over 50 papers in English containing some empirical data were identified. Most studies were retrospective. Typical PICU patients are male, younger, single, unemployed, suffering from schizophrenia or mania, from a Black Caribbean or African background, legally detained, with a forensic history. The most common reason for admission is for aggression management, and most patients stay a week or less. Evidence of the efficacy of PICU care is very poor. Conclusions: Most research so far has been small scale, and more substantial work using better methodologies is clearly required.

Suggested Citation

  • Len Bowers & Debra Jeffery & Hulya Bilgin & Manuela Jarrett & Alan Simpson & Julia Jones, 2008. "Psychiatric Intensive Care Units: a Literature Review," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 54(1), pages 56-68, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socpsy:v:54:y:2008:i:1:p:56-68
    DOI: 10.1177/0020764007082482
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Anthony Feinstein & Frank Holloway, 2002. "Evaluating the Use of a Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit: Is Ethnicity a Risk Factor for Admission?," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 48(1), pages 38-46, March.
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