Duty of confidence

Article Abstract:

Mental health nurses are often faced with the dilemma of having to decide whether to maintain patient confidentiality or put the patient or the public at risk. Nurses have asked for help in determining the level of disclosure of a patient's condition, especially when several agencies may be involved in patient care. The Dept of Health advises that information should be only given to those who have a direct involvement in the care of the patient concerned. Patients also have the right to veto any sharing of information, although this can be overturned for those with histories of violence.

Ethical aspects, Medical records, Access control, Psychiatric nursing

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Involuntary cohabitees

Article Abstract:

Maudsley Hospital's District Services Centre, London, England has investigated patient opinion on the impact of gender on care and facilities in mental health wards. About 79 male patients and 71 female patients from 18 wards responded to a questionnaire. Eighty-five approved of mixed wards for their normalising influence. However, 28 favoured single-sex wards. Nineteen women identified a need for greater privacy and security. Recommendations included providing locks for doors, allowing patient choice in the gender of primary nurses and the establishment of private areas.

Sex, Sexual behavior, Management, Influence, Surveys, Psychotherapy patients, Hospital wards

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Publicly investigated

Article Abstract:

The care of people with mental health problems will inevitably generate risks, tensions and problems, and also more serious incidents which merit investigation and formal public inquiries. Not all incidents can be predicted or easily prevented, and public inquiries can give valuable hindsight. However, the recommendations resulting from such investigations are often not acted upon, even though there are recurring themes including poor communication, inadequate staffing levels and insufficient resources.

United Kingdom, Investigations, Psychiatric services, Mental health services

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