Exploring Challenges: A Qualitative Study on Occupational Therapy in Acute Psychiatric Inpatient Settings

OBJECTIVE: Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation and recovery of individuals facing acute psychiatric challenges. However, the practice within acute psychiatric inpatient settings is often fraught with unique challenges that can hinder effective intervention. This qualitative study is aimed at exploring the multifaceted obstacles and challenges that occupational therapists encounter in these environments. METHOD: This study utilized a qualitative approach with conventional content analysis. A total of 14 participants were involved, comprising active and experienced therapists, individuals currently hospitalized in acute settings, and psychiatrists. After obtaining ethical approval and informed consent, in-depth, unstructured interviews were conducted in accordance with the research objectives. Purposeful sampling and maximum diversity strategies were employed to select and invite participants, who subsequently underwent in-depth, semistructured interviews. The interviews were meticulously recorded and subsequently transcribed. The transcribed texts were subjected to analysis through the inductive qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: The challenges associated with implementing occupational therapy interventions in acute psychiatric inpatient settings were categorized into five main areas: patient engagement, therapist safety concerns, burnout and high work pressure, lack of standard facilities and space, and unawareness of the need for such interventions. DISCUSSION: Considering the various challenges faced by occupational therapists in acute psychiatric inpatient settings, a comprehensive and coordinated approach is essential. Issues such as patient engagement, therapist safety concerns, burnout and high work pressure, lack of standard facilities, and unawareness of the need for such interventions all impact the effectiveness of therapy. Ongoing training and education, coupled with supervision and mentorship, can empower therapists and promote self-care practices to mitigate burnout. Fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, conducting regular meetings to discuss patient progress, and ensuring role clarity among team members are essential to facilitate comprehensive care. Providing adequate facilities and resources, ensuring safe working conditions, and raising awareness about the importance of occupational therapy are crucial.