Experience of inpatient eating disorder admissions: A systematic review and meta-synthesis

Inpatient treatment is required to treat some of the most severe eating disorder cases. Though there is research into experiences of inpatient treatment, there has been no systematic review of the available literature.

The intention of this systematic review and meta-synthesis was to consider the experiences of inpatient admissions and identify elements which could contribute to a more positive experience.

Searches for published and grey literature were performed on the following online databases: PsycINFO, PsycArticles, PsycTherapy MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, ASSIA, Scopus and Proquest Open Access Theses and Dissertations. Only papers with qualitative data regarding inpatient eating disorder treatment written in English published between January 2000 and June 2021 were included in the final selection. Screening and data extraction were undertaken by two independent researchers.

The final papers will be synthesised using Thomas and Harden’s (2008) method of thematic synthesis. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative data checklist and GRADE-COREQual will be used to assess quality of the papers and systematic review findings.

The searches and screening have been completed. The thematic synthesis and quality checks are still being undertaken at the time of writing. It is hoped that the findings will indicate ways for inpatient admissions to be improved.

Imogen Peebles

I’m currently undertaking a PhD in Clinical Psychology at The University of Edinburgh part-time whilst working as an assistant psychologist in CAMHS NHS Lothian. I’m particularly interested in interpersonal relationships within eating disorders.