Flexible observations in the management of self-harm
Intended for healthcare professionals
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Flexible observations in the management of self-harm

Joanne Sullivan Clinical nurse specialist, Cognitive behaviour therapy work at the Caswell Clinic, Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board
Ruth Bagshaw Consultant clinical and forensic psychologist, Caswell Clinic, Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board
Sharon Rees Ward manager, Caswell Clinic, Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board
Erin Wood Charge nurse, Caswell Clinic, Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board

Joanne Sullivan and colleagues describe how a shift away from constant monitoring of female patients has brought many benefits to one unit

This article decribes the challenges faced by one regional secure forensic service in meeting the needs of its female patients who present with self-harming behaviours. The nature and scope of the challenges are discussed, along with a strategy that was developed to address them. In addition, some of the barriers to implementation of the strategy are examined, as well as the clinical benefits of the approach.

Mental Health Practice. 16, 10, 32-37. doi: 10.7748/mhp2013.07.16.10.32.e858

Correspondence

joanne.sullivan@wales.nhs.uk

Peer review

This article has been subject to double blind peer review

Conflict of interest

None declared

Received: 12 July 2012

Accepted: 24 October 2012

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