PHOTO: Julie Seed. SUPPLIED
A comprehensive evaluation of mental health practices, prompted by a patient’s alleged involvement in a fatal assault shortly after release, has proposed reforms within a prominent hospital.
Shaun Michael Dunk, undergoing treatment for a mental health condition at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, was discharged into the community on December 18, 2023, following a clinical decision. Two days later, he purportedly entered a real estate office, committing a fatal attack and causing severe injuries in a random knife assault.
Charged with the murder of Julie Seed, 38, and the attempted murder of Susan Scardigno, 50, at their workplace in Plympton, Adelaide, Dunk’s case prompted a scrutiny of his mental health care, the results of which were made public on Saturday.
The review determined that while there was no evidence of individual clinicians’ decisions falling below standards, it underscored systemic deficiencies, notably the inadequacy of the emergency department’s care model for effective mental health treatment.
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Dunk had been hospitalized under a compulsory inpatient order and subsequently spent a night at the Urgent Mental Health Care Centre in the CBD. The report advocates for a collaborative protocol between the Royal Adelaide Hospital and the urgent care center to identify frequent attendees and develop a coordinated management strategy. Further recommendations include assessing mental health staffing at the hospital, the role of security personnel for mental health patients, revising risk assessment policies, and auditing the handling of patients presenting at the emergency department under the influence of illicit substances.
Health Minister Chris Picton committed to implementing all recommendations, prioritizing discussions with affected families and promptly sharing findings with clinical teams. Chief psychiatrist John Brayley and SA Health chief executive Dr. Robyn Lawrence will oversee the implementation process.
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Dr. Brayley emphasized the significance of these reforms in light of recent violent incidents, aiming to improve patient care, enhance community safety, and provide support to staff members.