The implementation of the case assignment method of patient care at the Dr. A.J. Stals care and rehabilitation centre

Abstract

The modern approach to the care of the mentally retarded in institutional settings is no longer to provide only custiodial care, but to train and rehabilitate each patient to be able to function at his maximal potential. This requires that each resident must have his abilities assessed and a programme implemented for his training, according to his particular needs and capabilities. Residents requiring similar training programmes are therefore grouped together under the care of one nurse, the number of residents in each group depending upon their selfcare skills. The nurse is assigned the responsibility of carrying out the training programme under the supervision of the Ward Sister and with the guidance of the multidisciplinary team under the leadership of the psychiatrist.