Cindy Towns, Kay Hodgetts, Philippa Shirtcliffe, Christina Cameron, Vuk Sekicki, Cathal McCloy, Christopher Giedt, Nicolien Lourens, Tracey Putt
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
The behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are common and include physical and sexual aggression. Unlike delirium, BPSD is a purely psychiatric presentation with no additional medical condition requiring treatment. New Zealand has a paucity of psychiatry beds for older adults, but despite the ageing population, limited attention has been given to this growing problem. BPSD patients present acutely to hospital when their behaviour becomes unmanageable. They need specialist attention and facilities. However, despite inappropriate design and no resourcing, hospitals routinely expect medical wards to accept these patients when no psychogeriatric bed is available even when the presentation is complicated by physical or sexual violence. The authors contend that this practice is unsafe and unethical. It breaches the Code of Rights for all patients and places physicians at medico-legal risk.
期刊介绍:
The Internal Medicine Journal is the official journal of the Adult Medicine Division of The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP). Its purpose is to publish high-quality internationally competitive peer-reviewed original medical research, both laboratory and clinical, relating to the study and research of human disease. Papers will be considered from all areas of medical practice and science. The Journal also has a major role in continuing medical education and publishes review articles relevant to physician education.