Controlled Evaluation of a Care Pathway for An Acute Episode of Schizophrenia

Abstract

Background:

Care pathways have been produced for medical and surgical patients with some evidence that standards of care can be improved. This paper evaluates the use of a care pathway for the treatment of patients with an acute episode of schizophrenia.

Aims:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of a care pathway for the treatment of patients with schizophrenia.

Method:

A multidisciplinary team drew up and piloted a care pathway for schizophrenia. The final care pathway involved 45 standards for the acute and stabilisation phases of a schizophrenic illness. The pathway was implemented in six adult clinical teams. Outcomes for patients being treated on the care pathway were compared with a control group of patients with schizophrenia being cared for in six teams not implementing the pathway.

Results:

There were few significant differences in the care received between the two groups. There were no differences in terms of clinical outcome as measured by the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, the Clinical Global Impression, or the Camberwell Assessment of Need. There was also no difference in the mean number of inpatient days between the two groups.

Conclusion:

The care pathway for an acute episode of schizophrenia did not result in significant changes for patients either in terms of care received or in terms of clinical outcome.