Lanterning
Practice of posting patients in hospital corridors or inappropriate spaces due to psychiatric bed shortages, creating suboptimal treatment environments.
Full Definition
Lanterning is a practice that occurs in overwhelmed psychiatric facilities where patients are placed in hospital corridors, lounges, or other inappropriate spaces due to lack of available psychiatric beds. This practice, named after the corridor placement resembling old-fashioned lantern positioning, represents a significant compromise in patient care quality and privacy. Lanterning typically occurs during high-demand periods when psychiatric emergency departments are at capacity but cannot discharge patients who require inpatient care. The practice raises serious concerns about patient dignity, therapeutic environment, and regulatory compliance, as it violates standard care protocols and accreditation requirements.
Usage
Usage note: Term is considered unprofessional in formal documentation; use 'inappropriate bed placement' in official reports.
In Context
- "The state inspector cited the facility for lanterning practices that violated patient privacy standards." — Regulatory compliance report
- "Budget constraints led to increased lanterning during peak admission periods." — Quality improvement meeting