Nursing Support Provided by Psychiatric Nurses and Influencing Factors for Patients Facing Difficulties in Living after Traumatic Events

Abstract

The objective of this study was to clarify psychiatric nurses’ experiences, and factors influencing them when supporting patients facing difficulties after traumatic events, and identify related challenges.

Data obtained through semi-structured interviews with 8 psychiatric nurses were qualitatively and descriptively analyzed. While developing a sense of difficulty in supporting patients, and hesitating to deal with their trauma, the psychiatric nurses supported them, focusing on their current problems. Trauma-focused nursing support was influenced by interpersonal characteristics of patients , nurses’ stability, and an environment that facilitates dealing with trauma. It was characterized by two patterns: a decrease in nursing support that avoids trauma-related problems, and an increase in trauma patient-centered nursing support. When providing nursing support, nurses tended to avoid active commitments to patients due to a lack of experience and confidence in trauma-focused nursing.

To resolve this, basic knowledge of trauma and education for emotional literacy may be required. The necessity of early collaboration with supporters and related institutions, with the aim of providing post-discharge support, was also suggested.