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This paper reviews the literature concerning absconding in mental health. Absconding from mental health in patient units remains a concern and challenge to the therapeutic work conducted in the ward and can result in adverse events such as injury, suicide and even harm to others especially relatives. Careful assessment of absconding risk must occur upon admission and appropriate care interventions implemented. The literature offers insights into ways to promote a therapeutic environment and understand reasons why mental health consumers leave in patient units without pre arranged leave. If clinicians view absconding form the consumer’s perspective and consider risk management interventions can be implemented in partnership with the consumer. The clinical aim should be to plan care within a therapeutic alliance with the mental health consumer.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Keywords:	absconding, AWOL, mental health, therapeutic alliance, mental health nursing
Research Division:	Health Sciences
Research Group:	Health services and systems
Research Field:	Mental health services
Objective Division:	Health
Objective Group:	Public health (excl. specific population health)
Objective Field:	Mental health
UTAS Author:	James, R (Dr Russell James)
UTAS Author:	Maude, P (Professor Phillip Maude)
ID Code:	155208
Year Published:	2015
Deposited By:	Nursing
Deposited On:	2023-02-03
Last Modified:	2023-02-03
Downloads:	0