Humanised care in acute psychiatric hospitalisation units: Definition, values and strategic initiatives from the perspective of persons with mental health problems, primary carers and professionals.

INTRODUCTION

Humanised care refers to the holistic approach to the person, considering their bio-psycho-social and behavioural dimensions. It becomes more complex when the person has mental health problems that may affect his or her will, cognition and relationship to the world. The literature on the humanisation of mental health is scarce and only offers the view of professionals.

AIM

To analyse the concept, values and strategic initiatives of humanised care in acute psychiatric units from the perspective of persons with mental health problems, carers and professionals.

METHOD

Qualitative grounded-theory approach. Data were collected through focus groups and in-depth interviews among persons with mental health problems, carers and professionals.

RESULTS

Thirteen focus groups and three in-depth staff interviews were performed, with a total of 61 participants. Humanised care is defined as quality care of an individualised, ethical and safe nature, empowering persons/carers to involve them in their health process, helping them resist the stigma of mental illness through a therapeutic relationship, bond and communication. Formal training, teamwork and effective communication are required. Six values and strategic initiatives were identified.

DISCUSSION

Each value and strategic initiatives acquires full meaning when connected with the rest. Without this interconnection, humanised care would be impossible.