‘It's Not All About Medication’: Improving the Use of Sensory Approaches in an Acute Mental Health Unit—A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

Improving the use of recovery-orientated and trauma-informed practices, such as sensory approaches, in acute mental health units (AMHUs) has proven challenging, and the biomedical model predominates. Limited research has explored how addressing local barriers to the use of sensory approaches can change clinical practice in these units. This study aimed to understand the factors that led to changes in practice following the implementation of a tailored strategy designed to improve the use of sensory approaches. Implementation strategies were co-designed with key stakeholders, guided by the Behaviour Change Wheel and Integrated Knowledge Translation. Strategies included: provision of sensory materials/resources; education and training; prompts and reminders; modelling; audit and feedback; workplace coalition; and facilitation. A qualitative descriptive design was used to conduct semi-structured interviews (n = 7) with mental health clinicians and peer support workers. Data were analysed inductively using reflective thematic analysis. Seven key themes emerged from the data: That's just how we do things now, More options available, Wide range of benefits, Everyone needs to be trained, People drove change, You haven't got time and Risk considerations. Participants reported how sensory approaches had become part of routine practice over the course of the project; however, the key ongoing barrier to their use was lack of time. Findings from this study highlight how addressing local contextual barriers to the use of sensory approaches can result in change in ward culture and improved use. Overall, the tailored strategy resulted in a move towards more consumer-centred, trauma-informed and recovery-orientated care in an AMHU.