The Optimal Length of Hospitalization for Psychiatric Patients: A Review of the Literature
Abstract
In recent years, several controlled studies have evaluated the value of different lengths of psychiatric hospitalization and of alternatives to hospitalization. The author reviews such studies, noting that most findings suggest that longer stay does not decrease subsequent hospitalization, and does not clearly improve social adjustment or diminish psychopathology. Long-term hospitalization may increase the patient's commitment to continued psychiatric care, but short stay with optimal aftercare planning may be just as beneficial. Long-term hospitalization is necessary clinically for some patients, but the evidence is consistent and convincing in indicating that hospitalization should be kept as short as feasible.
Access content
To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.- Personal login
- Institutional Login
- Sign in via OpenAthens
- Register for access
-
Please login/register if you wish to pair your device and check access availability.
Not a subscriber?
PsychiatryOnline subscription options offer access to the DSM-5 library, books, journals, CME, and patient resources. This all-in-one virtual library provides psychiatrists and mental health professionals with key resources for diagnosis, treatment, research, and professional development.
Need more help? PsychiatryOnline Customer Service may be reached by emailing [email protected] or by calling 800-368-5777 (in the U.S.) or 703-907-7322 (outside the U.S.).