- 17 D. Staff 42. Staff resources should be adequate in terms of numbers, categories of staff (psychiatrists, general practitioners, nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, etc.), and experience and training. Deficiencies in staff resources will often seriously undermine attempts to offer activities of the kind described in paragraph 37; further, they can lead to high-risk situations for patients, notwithstanding the good intentions and genuine efforts of the staff in service. 43. In some countries, the CPT has been particularly struck by the small number of qualified psychiatric nurses among the nursing staff in psychiatric establishments, and by the shortage of personnel qualified to conduct social therapy activities (in particular, occupational therapists). The development of specialised psychiatric nursing training and a greater emphasis on social therapy would have a considerable impact upon the quality of care. In particular, they would lead to the emergence of a therapeutic milieu less centred on drugbased and physical treatments. 44. A number of remarks concerning staff issues and, more particularly, auxiliary staff, have already been made in an earlier section (cf. paragraphs 28 to 31). However, the CPT also pays close attention to the attitude of doctors and nursing staff. In particular, the Committee will look for evidence of a genuine interest in establishing a therapeutic relationship with patients. It will also verify that patients who might be considered as burdensome or lacking rehabilitative potential are not being neglected. 45. As in other health-care services, it is important that the different categories of staff working in a psychiatric unit meet regularly and form a team under the authority of a senior doctor. This will allow day-today problems to be identified and discussed, and guidance to be given. The lack of such a possibility could well engender frustration and resentment among staff members. 46. External stimulation and support are also necessary to ensure that the staff of psychiatric establishments do not become too isolated. In this connection, it is highly desirable for such staff to be offered training possibilities outside their establishment as well as secondment opportunities. Similarly, the presence in psychiatric establishments of independent persons (e.g. students and researchers) and external bodies (cf paragraph 55) should be encouraged.