Impacts of psychiatric nursing work on well-being of nurses

Abstract

Psychiatric nursing is recognized as an internationally demanding high-stress occupation. Psychiatric nurses are exposed to patients suffering from different mental health disorders. Nurses build therapeutic relationships with patients and their families. A therapeutic relationship is a confined, clear, professional, empathetic interactive relationship between patients and their families. Nurses use their knowledge and understanding to create therapeutic relationships. As a result, they may suffer from different kinds of mental and physical stresses. The mental health and well-being of nurses are significant to provide quality care to their patients.

The main aim of this study is to find out how psychiatric nursing work impacts nurses’ mental health and well-being. The purpose of the study is insight into the nature of psychiatric nursing work and to support the well-being of psychiatric nurses.

The research method of the study is a descriptive literature review. Three databases (CINHAL, PubMed, and Academic search premium) were used to search the data, and twelve articles were chosen and reviewed. The inductive content analysis method is used to analyze the data.

In conclusion, coercive interventions, physical and mental violence, value incon gruence between nurses and the system, bullying, conflict, and workload have negative impacts on the mental health and physical health of psychiatric nurses. Nurses suffer from insomnia, hypertension, palpitations, tiredness post traumatic disorder, substance abuse, depression, and anxiety. Further investigation is recommended on strategies and alternative methods to prevent coercive interventions to protect nurses from being mentally affected. Developing awareness training and trauma-informed education programs following critical events are significant to promote the well-being of psychiatric nurses.

Keywords: Psychiatric Nursing, mental health disorders, well-being