This may sound hard to believe but I heard a brilliant talk this afternoon about toilet doors. Delivered by a woman called Asa-A should have a little o above it but couldn't find it on keyboard-pronounced Awsa from Sweden she inspired a small gathering on the not so inspiring subject. Of course it was a little more complicated than locks on toilet doors. What it was really about was power.
A former service user now social worker she conducted some research into locked door policies on inpatient wards in her area. Not keeping patients in in the classical sense but locks on bedroom and bathroom doors that are controlled by the patients. Across 8 wards there was no uniformity on one or other or both or neither. No one knew the purpose of why it had evolved in each context given that safety fears meant staff could open them anyway.
Staff felt it was safer to have door unlocked. Patients felt safer with locks. Well wouldn't you going to the toilet? I asked if staff had separate and lockable bathrooms. Of course they did. Which brings me to my eternal question stolen from my friend Madeline, whose need does that serve?
The power of a lock is significant. Who holds that key? He who has power. The real purpose of today's seminar is that we have to provide patient centred care that makes them feel safe and allows them to recover. It is not about what is most convenient and easy for us practitioners.
Of other interest from the amazing Asa/Awsa is that to be on her team of peer support workers individuals need to have at least 5 years inpatient experience. On those grounds I couldn't even apply! Great speaker and an inspiration.
Back in what passes for my normality things are hotting up. Requests are coming thick and fast and the feared PDs are well represented. Looks like I'm in for a busy time!
I Heard a Voice.
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