ABSTRACT
All patients cared for in forensic psychiatric care (FPC) have some kind of psychiatric disorder and most of them have committed one or more criminal acts. One part of the patient's rehabilitation is the transition from institutional to non-institutional FPC, but a number of patients do not succeed. The aim of this study was to elucidate different caregivers' experiences of aspects that influence the patients' ability to manage this rehabilitation. A qualitative approach was chosen. Data were collected by interviews in two focus groups, each group comprising of six caregivers representing both institutional and non-institutional FPC. The transcribed interviews were analysed using a qualitative content analysis. Important aspects influencing the patients' transition described were a well-planned care plan, together with a suitable non-institutional dwelling and a tailored occupation. Other important areas were having a well-functioning and trusting social network and a good relationship with a contact person/advocate. A major barrier to a successful transition was whether the patients managed their own finances or not. It was stated that it is important that the patients participate in the care and that different authorities create individual conditions and flexible solutions. All of these factors are important to focus on when caring for patients during their stay in the institutional FPC.
Subject(s)
Criminals/psychology , Forensic Psychiatry/methods , Institutionalization , Mental Disorders/rehabilitation , Caregivers , Cooperative Behavior , Deinstitutionalization , Employment , Female , Focus Groups , Humans , Interview, Psychological/methods , Male , Mental Disorders/complications , Mental Disorders/psychology , Motivation , Patient Compliance/psychology , Patient Compliance/statistics & numerical data , Personal Autonomy , Social Support , Substance-Related Disorders/complications , SwedenABSTRACT
Approximately 60%-80% of all multiple sclerosis (MS) patients are heat sensitive. The aim of this study was to gain information on the effects of an assistive device, the cooling-suit, on MS-patients' self-care ability and also practical implications. A single-case approach was adopted in a quasi- experimental before-and-after study. The cooling-suit was used in their own homes by 10 individuals with diagnosed MS in different stages from relapsing-remitting to chronic progressive. Data collection procedures were self-assessment through a structured assessment-instrument, an open-ended interview before and after the intervention and a diary written during one week. The selected instrument, the MS Self-Care ADL Scale, has been developed for persons with MS and was translated into Swedish. The results showed increased self-care ability during and after use of the cooling-suit. However, different aspects of daily life activities were improved and to a varying extent. It is concluded that the study participants were supported and empowered in different activities of daily life such as walking and transfer and reduced voiding problems by using the cooling-suit. Some difficulties in handling the cooling-suit were also reported.
