Effects of a smoking ban on a general hospital psychiatric unit.

On January 1, 1987, the Board of Trustees of Southwest Washington Hospitals instituted a smoking ban in all of its facilities, including the 17-bed general psychiatry unit. Our study of ward atmosphere, PRN medications, and negative incidents related to that change are reported. We feel the change was introduced successfully with minimal impact on the successful function of our service. Others are encouraged to proceed with validation of our experience.