Occupational therapy practice in psychiatric day hospitals: A scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this scoping review was to explore the practice of occupational therapists in psychiatric day hospitals, globally.

Methodology: Searches were conducted in January 2024; 38 articles were screened and 22 were identified for data extraction. Articles were imported onto Covidence software. Data charting was done, and data was exported into a Microsoft Excel sheet, where content analysis was performed based on the review’s objectives. Synthesis of the results was done through discussion and reported according to the PRISMA for Scoping Reviews guidelines.

Results: Thirty-eight articles were included but only 22 were relevant. Group therapy, individualised therapy, vocational and community workshops were identified as common modes of intervention in psychiatric day hospitals. Occupation-based activities are integral to intervention. However, there was no explicit definition regarding the role of occupational therapy and practice guidelines for psychiatric day hospitals.    

Conclusion: The general scope of occupational therapy remains the same as at overnight hospitals, day hospitals and community-based centres. It is mainly occupation-centred, function-orientated, and patient-centred. However, there remains ambiguity on specific practice principles and guidelines that clearly define the role of occupational therapists in day hospitals. There is a need for occupational therapy practice guidelines specific for psychiatric day hospitals.

 Implications for Practice

• The of study offers valuable insights into the current knowledge and availability and known about the role and scope of practice for occupational therapy in the rapidly expanding psychiatric day hospital setting, highlighting areas for further development.
• The results of this study provide tangible evidence on therapeutic principles, practice approaches, programme content, and guide resource allocation for psychiatric day hospitals.
• Ultimately, these results inform occupational therapy intervention protocols, solidify the profession’s role in psychiatric care, and contribute towards National Health Insurance (NHI) policy development.