Abstract
Purpose : The purpose of this study was to explore strategies of public health nurses (PHNs) who support mentally ill people with potential treatment interruption in order for them to obtain psychiatric medical care and to inspire the ideal way of supporting them in the future. Methods : The qualitative research method was used. Data were collected by semi-structural interviews with five prefectural PHNs who had experience in supporting mentally ill people with potential treatment interruption in order for them to obtain psychiatric medical care. Results : Common strategies of four PHNs emerged for supporting mentally ill people with potential treatment interruption to obtain psychiatric medical care. Out of 542 codes, forty-three sub-categories were identified and integrated into 10 categories. When the categories were analyzed in the individual care process of PHNs, the following common phases were found : identification of the individual's condition, and exploration of the need to provide support for the individual and his/her family (Phase 1) ; tentative assessment of the individual's status and the direction of support for them (Phase 2) ; based on the psychiatrist's diagnosis, making arrangements for the individual to obtain psychiatric medical care (Phase 3) ; and encouraging the individual and his/her family to see the doctor together (Phase 4). Conclusion : The findings suggest that based on assessment of the mentally ill people's condition and their ability to maintain a healthy life by oneself, the aim of PHNs is to support mentally disordered people that they will be able to keep a stable life in their community in the future.
