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This study aimed to explore the perspective of multidisciplinary staff on the process of becoming and working as a practice development unit (PDU). PDUs are reported as positive initiatives within health care. It is important to understand the process of becoming a PDU and the ongoing effects of the process to the staff working within the unit. This project engaged with multidisciplinary staff working on six PDU units throughout the north‐west of England. Data collection was in two phases: a self‐completion questionnaire distributed to all staff within the PDUs (n = 625, 28.2% response rate) followed by 17 semi‐structured telephone interviews. The majority of questionnaire respondents (n = 114, 64%) indicated that they would recommend PDU accreditation to other units. The main themes arising from the project focus on accreditation having a positive influence on multidisciplinary team working, evidence‐based practice and improving opportunities for professional development. Issues were raised during the interviews regarding the increased development of staff leading to high turnover, the high workload involved in leading the accreditation and the inequitable involvement of professions in the process. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This paper reports on a study carried out at an acute neurosciences hospital trust. The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a training programme for healthcare assistants undertaking special observation of patients. Some patients being cared for at the hospital have neurological complaints that are accompanied by confusion and agitation and they require close observation, in order to preserve their own and others' safety. The literature review revealed an abundance of literature related to special observation in mental health care. However, there is very little research related to the care of patients with neurological conditions. Some 20 experienced, female, healthcare assistants took part in the training programme. At the start of the study, their attitudes to undertaking special observation were negative. The training programme included topics such as communication, management of extreme agitation, de-escalation strategies and diversional activities. Participants' confidence levels concerning assessment for suitable activities, using distraction techniques, de-escalation and restraint methods increased on completion of the programme. It is concluded that caring for confused patients in acute hospital settings may sometimes be a passive, non-therapeutic type activity. Increasing the range of patient activities available and encouraging meaningful interactions with carers and patients will improve the caring experience for all concerned.

No abstract

This paper reports on a study carried out at an acute neurosciences hospital trust. The aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a training programme for healthcare assistants undertaking special observation of patients. Some patients being cared for at the hospital have neurological complaints that are accompanied by confusion and agitation and require close observation in order to preserve their own and other's safety. The literature review revealed an abundance of literature related to special observation in mental health care. However, there is very little research related to the care of patients with neurological conditions. Some 20 experienced, female healthcare assistants (HCAs) took part in a training programme on special observation of patients. Attitudes to undertaking special observation at the start of the study were negative. The training programme included topics such as communication, management of extreme agitation, de-escalation strategies and diversional activities. Participants' confidence levels concerning assessment for suitable activities, using distraction techniques, de-escalation and restraint methods, increased on completion of the programme. It is concluded that caring for confused patients in acute hospital settings may sometimes be a passive, non-therapeutic type activity. Increasing the range of patient activities available and encouraging meaningful interactions with carers and patients will improve the caring experience for all concerned.