A content analysis of state hospital policies on sex between inpatients

Eighty-one state psychiatric hospitals in 16 states were surveyed about whe ther they had policies on sex between inpatients. Thirty-one hospitals resp onded by sending a copy of their policies, which were analyzed for explicit definitions and distinctions between various sexual behaviors; for the pre sence and content of statements about patients' lights and personal autonom y duty to protect, competency to consent, and staff guidance and education; and for instructions on the manage; ment of sexual incidents. Fourteen of the 31 policies explicitly forbade inpatient sex; 12 stressed patient auton omy Only five specified that staff should receive special training. The res ults indicate that hospitals vary widely in their attention and management approach to inpatients' sexual behavior.