What are the experiences of people with psychosis, their carers and staff in inpatient mental healthcare services in the United Kingdom? A systematic review and meta-ethnography.
Lewis A MacDonald-Winship, Thomas A Schröder, Stephanie Lane
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-ethnography synthesized qualitative research on inpatient mental healthcare experiences among people with psychosis, their carers and staff in the United Kingdom. The review identified 21 studies, appraised their quality and integrated their findings. Three themes emerged: power and control, atmospheres of care, and connection and recovery. Experiences varied from confusion, disconnection and perceived threats to safety to greater understanding and support for recovery, with communication and relationships shaping how care was experienced.
Key findings
- Synthesis of 21 qualitative studies identified three themes: power and control, atmospheres of care, and connection and recovery.
- Patients, carers and staff described multifaceted challenges in conflict-laden inpatient environments.
- Experiences were more positive when patients felt informed, carers were included and staff felt supported.
- Institutional routines could serve as defences against emotional strain, potentially contributing to relational detachment.
Why it matters
The findings highlight that inpatient care is experienced not only through its routines and safety demands but also through relationships and communication. Understanding how information-sharing, carer involvement and staff support shape experiences may help services attend to connection and recovery amid the emotional intensity of acute care.
What to keep in mind
The quality of included studies varied, and the review notes that staff and carer experiences warrant further research.