The Infirmary as a Short-Term Psychiatric Facility

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the role of the Oregon State University Infirmary (inpatient unit) in the provision of crisis intervention services for students with emotional problems. The focus was on the working assumptions of the infirmary program, the patient population which utilized the infirmary, the dimensions of treatment, and treatment outcomes.

Data were collected for a three year span on all patients who had contact with the infirmary for problems of an emotional nature. Records were reviewed for demographic variables, presenting symptomatology, diagnosis, treatment, disposition, and outcomes. Comparisons were made between these patients and those who received outpatient services through the Oregon State University Mental Health Clinic.

Demographic data indicated that patients who were treated in the infirmary differed only slightly from either the general student population of the university or from students receiving outpatient services. Presenting symptoms reflected a wide range of emotional problems. The severity of psychopathology was demonstrated by the finding that one-quarter of the patients manifested symptoms of acute psychosis, suicidal preoccupation, acute drug reaction, or toxic alcohol reaction. Consistent with the working assumptions of the program, the focus of treatment was short-term, intensive, and symptom directed. Treatment outcomes as determined by followup data were generally positive.

It was concluded that the infirmary provided an important treatment option which extended rather than duplicated outpatient services. The need for such an option was clearly demonstrated. The study was supportive of the concept that a university infirmary has the potential for utilization as a multipurpose facility.