M150. Relatives Experiences of the Early Signs Action Plan

Abstract

Background In the recent years person-centered methods have been developed to involve relatives in the care of their next of kin. The Early Signs Action Plan (ESAP) was developed to facilitate relatives’ participation in the care of their next of kin in psychiatric outpatient units specialized in the treatment of persons with schizophrenia and similar disorders. The aim was to investigate relatives’ experiences regarding the activation of the action plan for their next of kin. Methods The study is a qualitative interview study using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were conducted with relatives (N=13) to outpatients whose Early Signs Action Plan had been activated. The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. The material was then analyzed with qualitative content analysis. Results ESAP was positively received by the relatives and most of them experienced that they were participating in the planning of the care of their next of kin’s. Participating in the care also implied a feeling of security and awareness about their next of kin’s early warning signs and what to do in case of a relapse. Relatives also indicated that the ESAP is vulnerable during on call time and during vacation periods. Outdated paths to get in contact with psychiatric services on call time were reported as problematic since this information is crucial for getting in touch with care outside of office hours. Discussion ESAP seems to be a useful tool for the involvement of relatives in the care of their next of kin.