Table 6 Description of included primary studies for the comparison early psychiatric intervention versus usual care
Study | Participants | Intervention | Comparison | Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Kotynia English 2005 [18] | 53 residents in the intervention group and 53 residents in the control group in 22 nursing homes in Australia. Mean age: 84 years. | Aimed at improving mental health and physical outcomes by early detection of symptoms, thereby indirectly reducing the need for psychotropic medication. Psychiatric assessment of all residents in the intervention group. Residents attaining a GDS-15 (Geriatric Depression Scale) score greater than 5 or a NPI (Neuropsychiatric Inventory) score greater than zero in any of its 12 sections were referred to a psychogeriatric multi disciplinary team for treatment and systematic follow up untill the problem was solved (usually ca 3 months). Extent of implementation: All the residents were screened but no other information than that residents were referred when needed. | Usual care, i.e. when residents screened positively, they were not automatically referred to psychiatric treatment but only if it was judged necessary. | Use of psychotropic agents or use of PRN medication, physical restraint. |