Exploring the experiences of ’frequent users’ of inpatient services
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the experiences of ‘frequent users’ of psychiatric inpatient services who present with emotional regulation and relationship problems.\n\n
IRAS ID
143106
Contact name
Michael Larkin
Contact email
Research summary
The purpose of this study is to develop a greater understanding of experiences of people who are repeatedly admitted to psychiatric inpatient units, known as ‘frequent attenders’. Readmission is defined as admission to hospital at least every 6 months. The focus is particularly on those who have difficulties regulating emotions leading to self-harm and suicide attempts.\n\nThe current evidence base detailing why these people may be part of this ‘revolving door process’ is currently very limited. It is very important to improve understanding for a better quality of life for these users. The experiences of both service users and staff are important in fully understanding the meaning and context of readmission experiences. \n\nData collection will be in two parallel phases(see appendix 5 and 6 for full process):\nPhase I: research relating to service user perspectives\nPhase II: research relating to staff perspectives\n\nEach phase will be conducted by one of two postgraduate research students, under supervision from an academic research psychologist and a practicing clinical psychologist working in the host organisation.\n\nFor the research with service users, care co-ordinators (CCs) from Community Mental Health Teams, will identify potential participants using a predetermined list of inclusion and exclusion criteria.\n\nFor both parts of the study, data will be gathered through qualitative semi-structured interviews with the investigator, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Service-users have been involved in the design of questions for the interview. It is envisaged that a maximum of 10 participants will be recruited for each phase. The data will all be analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The outcome of the study will help services to understand the context of frequent readmission, and it is hoped that findings from this study will inform our understanding of how to provide the best care for service users, to enhance recovery and so reduce the need for frequent admissions.
REC name
West Midlands - South Birmingham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/WM/0080
Date of REC Opinion
28 Apr 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion