Managing diabetes in the psychiatric in-patient setting: knowledge, attitudes and skills of healthcare professionals

Aims and method: There is currently a lack of monitoring and standardisation of diabetes care in the National Health Service (NHS) psychiatric in-patient setting. We surveyed healthcare professionals in psychiatric in-patient units across England to understand current diabetes care. A 13-item questionnaire was piloted via think-aloud interviews. The survey was completed by healthcare professionals across 19 wards in 11 NHS mental health trusts. Results were analysed via descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results: Of 150 respondents, 98% agreed that addressing physical health needs was an important part of the mental health team's role; 68% agreed that they had adequate skills and knowledge to manage diabetes safely. Thematic analysis identified themes relating to individual, organisational and patient-level factors.

Clinical implications: Psychiatric admission could be used opportunistically to improve the healthcare disparities for people with comorbid diabetes and severe mental illness. This national survey highlights areas that need to be addressed to optimise diabetes care in this setting.