Areas of Specialty

Psychiatric Services

The inpatient psychiatric unit at St. John's Hospital is a locked unit with three separate patient areas (step down program; acute unit; and geriatric psych wing). The psychiatric program serves an adult population with a multitude of psychiatric diagnoses. This include mood disorders such depression with suicidal ideation and bipolar disorder; anxiety disorders, dementia with associated psychiatric symptoms and behavioral problems; psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and paranoia; personality disorders; and dually diagnosed individuals whose chemical dependency complicates a psychiatric disorder. 

Under the leadership of a psychiatrist, an interdisciplinary treatment team includes mental health counselors, social workers, occupational therapists, recreational therapists, and addictions professionals in addition to the nursing staff. RNs, LPNs and CNAs work together in a team format to provide quality psychiatric nursing care for non-critical medical management.

Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations include a psychiatric history and physical, psychological testing, psychosocial assessments, leisure assessment and functional/safety assessments. Therapeutic groups are a part of the patient’s routine and are designed to empower patients and promote recovery. Creative programming includes animal-assisted therapy (therapy dogs and an aviary), music therapy and massage.
Individuals with psychiatric disorders are often misunderstood and stigmatized by our society. Those of us who work in this field are humbled by our patients’ strength and courage. 

 

For more information

email ann.randol@st-johns.org