An exploration of nurses' attitudes to the nursing care of the suicidal patient in an acute psychiatric ward

Abstract

Suicidal patients admitted to hospital following a suicidal attempt or expressing suicidal ideation present a real challenge to health professionals with regard to their therapeutic care. This study was undertaken to explore the attitudes of psychiatric nurses caring for such patients. Results reveal that psychiatric nurses do hold positive views on caring for potentially suicidal patients, contradicting previous studies where more negative feeling were expressed by nurses, especially those with initial contact. Findings also show that some nurses experience an element of distress, and the length of experience within such a working environment does not affect the nurses' level of satisfaction gained on caring for the suicidal patient. This study also identifies an expression of need for further education and practice in interpersonal skills and therapeutic modalities to enhance and develop a more effective delivery of care for this group of patients.