Coming to our Senses

Minimising the use of seclusion and restraint practice for adolescents in mental health inpatient units through early de-escalation is a priority for safe care.

The Saunders Unit at Sydney Children’s Hospital (SCH), Randwick, identified the need for a Sensory Room to offer early time-out to our young people when they are distressed, giving patients and staff a safe and healthy environment. The room empowers our inpatients to de-escalate and/or self-soothe safely. 

Adapted Experience-based Co-Design was used to bring inpatients together with hospital staff to design and paint a mural in the sensory room, and to share their collaborative experience. This change was part of an overall strategy to reduce the likelihood of seclusion and restraint practice.​