The Impact of Sensory Modulation Interventions on Practice in Acute Inpatient Mental Health Settings: A Meta-Ethnography

Abstract

This review explores the transformative impact of sensory modulation interventions in acute inpatient mental health care setting utilising meta-ethnography. The methodology by Noblit & Hare guided the approach to creating the review. Searches of articles published within the previous 10 years were conducted in Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. Searches aimed to identify rich qualitative data on the area of sensory modulation interventions and acute inpatient mental health care. Seven articles were selected for inclusion and a reciprocal translation synthesis was undertaken. Sensory modulation interventions emerged as a key alternative to traditional inpatient practices, including seclusion and restraint and the use of PRN psychotropic medication. It introduces a new dimension within care strategies that emphasise individual preferences and care plans that empower individuals. Sensory modulation interventions serve as an effective means to de-escalation that promotes shared responsibility between staff and individuals in care. The review highlights this practice as a departure from coercive practices and biomedical interventions, promoting meaningful therapeutic engagement. Our findings show that sensory modulation interventions have the potential to create a culture shift in acute inpatient mental health settings towards person-centred, recovery-orientated, trauma-informed clinical practice.

Author contributions

Substantial contributions to conception and design, acquisition of data or analysis and interpretation of data; drafting the article or revising it critically for important intellectual content.

Conceptualisation

LM, SC. Data extraction, LM, SC. Data analysis and interpretation: LM, PB, SC, JP. Data checking: LM, SC, PB. Draft writing: LM, SC, PB, JP, SH, DP. Review of final draft: All authors.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.