New Safe Assessment Unit improves care for vulnerable patients at Nepean Hospital
A new unit embedded within Nepean Hospital’s emergency department is providing specialised care for patients presenting with drug related behavioural disturbances, allowing more targeted support and treatment to some of the community’s most vulnerable patients.
The Safe Assessment Unit (SAU) is a dedicated short-stay unit that provides a calm, quiet, low-stimulus environment designed to minimise triggers, enabling effective de-escalation for patients facing mental health and substance abuse challenges.
Similar models of care have resulted in improved patient outcomes, reduced need for sedation and restraint, as well as a reduction in the length of stay and time to be seen in EDs
Since its opening more than three months ago, the service has already helped improve the outcomes of more than 250 patients.
Clinical Deputy Director Mark Salter emphasises the SAU's ability to "fast-track management," ensuring timely access to mental health clinicians, addiction specialists, and emergency physicians.
"We believe this early, trauma-informed approach allows for the safe and complete management of underlying clinical issues, significantly reducing the need for restrictive measures," says Mark.
“Care will be multidisciplined inclusive of nursing, allied health and medical, with the aim of providing a model which delivers a collaborative and collegiate approach to care for this vulnerable cohort of patients,” adds Mark.
By efficiently addressing complex patient needs, the ED can provide timely and compassionate emergency care while reducing prolonged ED wait times and unnecessary hospital admissions for those who may find it challenging in the hospital environment.
Patients will receive ongoing support after discharge through a collaborative network of community alcohol and other drug services, mental health providers, and other local health and community services.