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Feature Article

A Comparison of Multisensory and Traditional Interventions on Inpatient Psychiatry and Geriatric Neuropsychiatry Units

Margaret Knight, PhD, RN, PMHCNS-BC; Lesley Adkison, MSN, RN; Joan Stack Kovach, RNPC, MS

ABSTRACT

Sensory rooms and the use of multisensory interventions are becoming popular in inpatient psychiatry. The empirical data supporting their use are limited, and there is only anecdotal evidence indicating effectiveness in psychiatric populations. The specific aims of this observational pilot study were to determine whether multisensory-based therapies were effective in managing psychiatric symptoms and to evaluate how these interventions compared to traditional ones used in the milieu. The study found that multisensory interventions were as effective as traditional ones in managing symptoms, and participants’ Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale scores significantly improved following both kinds of intervention. Medication administration did not affect symptom reduction. This article explores how multisensory interventions offer choice in symptom management. Education regarding multisensory strategies should become integral to inpatient and outpatient group programs, in that additional symptom management strategies can only be an asset.

AUTHORS

Dr. Knight is Assistant Professor, University of Massachusetts, Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts. Dr. Knight is also Clinical Specialist, Ms. Adkison is Nurse Director, Geriatric Neuropsychiatry Unit, McLean Hospital, Belmont, and Ms. Kovach is Nurse Director, McLean Southeast, Brockton, Massachusetts.

The authors disclose that they have no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity, including research support.

Address correspondence to Margaret Knight, PhD, RN, PMHCNS-BC, PO Box 328, West Groton, MA 01472; e-mail: Margaret_Knight@uml.edu.

doi:10.3928/02793695-20091204-03