The Psychiatrist (2008) 32: 406-408. doi: 10.1192/pb.bp.108.019794
© 2008 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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Implementing the Short-Term Assessment of Risk and Treatability (START) in a forensic mental health service{dagger}

Michael Doyle, Nurse Consultant and Honorary Research Fellow

*Bolton Salford and Trafford Mental Health NHS Trust, and University of Manchester, Edenfield Centre Adult Forensic Service, 535 Bury New Road, Prestwich, Manchester M25 3BL, email: mike.doyle{at}bstmht.nhs.uk

Geraint Lewis, Clinical Psychologist

Moya Brisbane, Senior Nurse

Risk & Patient Safety, Bolton Salford and Trafford Mental Health NHS Trust, and University of Manchester, Edenfield Centre Adult Forensic Service, Manchester

Declaration of interest

None.

{dagger} See opinion & debate, pp. 403-405, this issue.

AIMS AND METHOD

To evaluate the practical utility and face validity of a new risk assessment guideline, the Short-Term Assessment of Risk and Treatability (START), within a forensic mental health service. Staff attended training and subsequently used the START to assess and formulate risk. Staff then completed an evaluation questionnaire about their experiences of using the START.

RESULTS

The study proved useful in evaluating the practical utility and face validity of the START. The START demonstrated both good practical utility and face validity. Areas of difficulty in completing the START were identified and areas for developing the START were highlighted.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The service subsequently implemented a revised version of the START into routine practice. The results of the pilot study suggest that the START can usefully assist in structuring risk judgements in practice.


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The Psychiatrist 2008 32: 403-405. [Abstract] [Full Text]