General satisfaction and satisfaction with nursing communication on an adult psychiatric ward.

A client satisfaction survey was undertaken on an adult psychiatric admission ward in Sheffield, England, being sent to all clients discharged from the ward over 12 months. The questionnaire consisted of a general satisfaction element, and two questions asking about satisfaction with nursing communication. The response rate was 81 from 199 forms sent. General satisfaction levels were lower than for a sample of 3120 mainly out-patient psychiatric clients in the USA. Satisfaction with nursing communication was significantly correlated with general satisfaction. The survey allowed the number of dissatisfied clients to be identified, and their views highlighted. One aspect often reported by dissatisfied clients was a perceived lack of time from staff. The importance of nursing communication with respect to client satisfaction is highlighted by the study.