Process-Oriented Critical Pathways in Inpatient Psychiatry: Our First Year

The critical pathway methodology of assigning and timing staff interventions and expected patient outcomes has developed worldwide recognition, but is less likely to be used in psychiatry than in other medical fields. 2 At St. Mary's in Rochester, New York, an interdisciplinary team adapted the critical pathway concept to meet the needs of an acute inpatient population with relative success. Although staff education needs continue and plans to modify the pathway are in progress, all staff feel that the critical pathway is a viable tool for enhancing patient care and optimizing resources use. Benefits, obstacles, and suggestions are discussed.