Talk Description
474Q - Research Paper
Abstracts
Aim:
Improve mental health outcomes of those receiving Haemodialysis rurally through improved screening, early identification of deterioration in mental state and appropriate escalation of care.
Method:
Implementation of a validated tool used to screen 100% of consumers that allows for a report of change by the consumer and for clinician assessment. Healthcare practitioners were trained in appropriate use of the risk screening tools, screening frequency and symptoms of mental state deterioration. A pathway for escalation of care was implemented and the role of healthcare practitioners identified. Multiple audits to review the screening results were conducted comparing pre and post implementation outcomes.
Results:
22 patients were screened utilising the newly sourced tool, 3 consumers who were previously not at risk through historic methods, were flagged as being at risk of deteriorating mental health. One consumer who had previously been treated for a mental health condition and was previously deemed as 'doing well' was rescreened and further deterioration was identified. Risk identification enabled early referral to appropriate services and interventional care to commence.
Conclusion:
Deterioration in mental health has been noted as a common occurrence in the chronic health setting. Improved screening processes enhanced our ability to promptly identify changes in mental state and improve the mental health outcomes of consumers otherwise experiencing barriers in accessing care.
Abstracts
Aim:
Improve mental health outcomes of those receiving Haemodialysis rurally through improved screening, early identification of deterioration in mental state and appropriate escalation of care.
Method:
Implementation of a validated tool used to screen 100% of consumers that allows for a report of change by the consumer and for clinician assessment. Healthcare practitioners were trained in appropriate use of the risk screening tools, screening frequency and symptoms of mental state deterioration. A pathway for escalation of care was implemented and the role of healthcare practitioners identified. Multiple audits to review the screening results were conducted comparing pre and post implementation outcomes.
Results:
22 patients were screened utilising the newly sourced tool, 3 consumers who were previously not at risk through historic methods, were flagged as being at risk of deteriorating mental health. One consumer who had previously been treated for a mental health condition and was previously deemed as 'doing well' was rescreened and further deterioration was identified. Risk identification enabled early referral to appropriate services and interventional care to commence.
Conclusion:
Deterioration in mental health has been noted as a common occurrence in the chronic health setting. Improved screening processes enhanced our ability to promptly identify changes in mental state and improve the mental health outcomes of consumers otherwise experiencing barriers in accessing care.