Research evidence suggests that inpatient treatment is effective in reducing PTSD and other psychiatric symptoms for a period of time but that gains are not permanent in many cases. Yet, treatment success should not only be measured as symptom reduction. Attention needs to be directed to improvements in the individual's overall quality of life and object relations. Treatment focus and length of stay have emerged as important variables. Treatment that is oriented to present day functioning with general attention to the impact of traumatization is preferable to treatment that is exclusively trauma-focused.
Additional research is called for.
Additionally, the impact of the overall milieu and the treatment philosophy are as important to assess as specific techniques. A multidisciplinary assessment is conducted upon admission to determine reasons for hospitalization and treatment goals and to review the patient's psychosocial history, including significant stressors and personal strengths and deficits. The patient is incorporated into the therapeutic milieu and actively engaged in the treatment process as soon as possible. Inpatient treatment follows the sequenced model of posttrauma treatment. The focus on safety, stabilization , symptom management, personal functioning, and reconnection to others is the primary focus of inpatient treatment.