Relational Principles in the Care of Suicidal Inpatients: Experiences of Therapists and Mental Health Nurses

Abstract

This study explored and compared therapists' and mental health nurses' experiences of caring for suicidal inpatients in light of ethics of care and ethics of justice. Analysis of interview data from eight therapists and eight mental health nurses indicates two approaches: "connection and care" and "duty and control," reflecting aspects of both ethical perspectives. There are some differences between the two professional groups, and sometimes there might be conflicts between the two approaches and ethical perspectives. Clinical practice is increasingly shaped by standardization and guidelines, and it is important to promote professionals' efforts to provide relational-emotional care for suicidal patients.