An analysis of process and outcomes for new long-stay patients in a 'ward-in-a-house'.

Detailed progress and outcome data for a small group of 'new long-stay' patients living in a 'ward-ina-house' (hospital hostel) were examined. There was no evidence of pre-existing differences related to final outcome. Those residents who were eventually resettled showed more evidence of improvement over the length of their stay, and had significantly better overall functioning in the period immediately prior to their resettlement. The group who were eventually transferred out of the unit showed less evidence of improvement and more evidence of deterioration, albeit commonly following some initial improvement. They also showed an increase in violent and aggressive behaviour in the weeks immediately prior to their move. The ongoing group of current residents appeared to be specifically characterised by significant fluctuations in their functioning over their length of stay. The implications of these findings for the long-term rehabilitation and care of these patients are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]