Case study

Engaging Melinda through a collaborative and personalised care plan

When 34-year-old Melinda was admitted following an episode of psychosis, she was experiencing low moods and described hearing troublesome voices. Although there were no specific risks identified, Melinda appeared to be reluctant to engage with anyone on the ward and seemed afraid and suspicious.

Melinda’s named nurse, John, found out about her hobbies and persuaded her to join the ward’s art and gardening activities as well as its mindfulness group, with the aid of a healthcare support worker, Alison, who would initially attend activities with her. Melinda also agreed to spend time each day with John to explore and develop strategies to cope with the voices she was hearing, supported by self-help materials. Melinda was introduced to the duty nurse, Samantha, who explained that she, John or Alison would check in regularly with Melinda to see how she was coping and if there was anything she needed.

Melinda’s mulidisciplinary team agreed that any signs of deterioration would be discussed at the daily safety huddle and a personalised action plan for additional support made if required. However, it was hoped that with the initial support in place, Melinda would gradually attend the daily ward diary meetings to set goals for the day and engage in follow-up meetings later in the day.

For more information, please refer to our From Observation to Intervention (PDF) guidance document.