Hospitals use TVs in psych rooms as therapy for patients.
TVs in Psych Rooms
Psychiatric hospitals still have a reason to be in modern society, as a place of safety for vulnerable people. Specially trained staff have a duty of care to protect, medicate and provide therapy as a plan of managing the mental illness. Also known as mental asylums and mental institutions, which were very scary and desperate places a century ago, have developed into calm environments, where it is no longer a prison regime, but a comfortable place to get help. There are no demographics to determine who would be affected by mental health; it can affect people of any age, at any time of life and rich or poor.
Care in the community has replaced the old style lunatic asylums, as many patients lead a ‘normal’ life, albeit with medication. Accepting a mental health problem is the first step to help; there is such a wide range of psychiatric illness and affect more people than we realise. Whilst some hospitals specialize in voluntary admission, for short stay patients there are other units for long term patients who’s care is crucial as psychiatrists consider they may be a danger to themselves and others.
A patients room and surrounding areas, particularly within the building offer a safe haven, where not only the basic human needs are provided, but also the comforts we take for granted, like a comfortable bed, private facilities and a television. These, of course, are part of an anti-ligature range of furniture, especially designed to avoid ligature opportunities for self harm. Suicide, self mutilation and harm to others is a top priority. Some people are so desperate to end their life, they will try anything – which is why door hinges, wardrobes and even televisions are considered potential hazards. However by enclosing TVs in psych rooms reduces the risk greatly.
A TV enclosure fully protects both the TV, particularly the glass screen and also the patient, as it is recommended it is fitted flush to the wall (if it is to be wall hung – which most TVs are). The cables are thus protected too. Broken glass has been used as a weapon for self inflicted injuries and also as a threat against members of staff and visitors. This is avoidable and costs very little in comparison to the cost of a legal case for compensation.
This type of anti-ligature furniture is suitable for other areas of a regular hospital, halfway house or psych ward, as they are aesthetically designed and blend in well to the healthcare environment, with its soft lines avoiding sharp corners, and practical wipe down surfaces. TV enclosure can also be found in many public places, like restaurants, retail outlet and even places of worship.
Call +44 (0) 843 2893717 for more information.