A Medical–Surgical Nurse’s Perceptions of Caring for a Person With Severe Mental Illness

Abstract

Background: When hospitalized for medical conditions, many people with severe mental illness (SMI) have poor outcomes, yet little is known about contributing factors. Studies exploring the care experience from nurses’ perspectives described care processes as “difficult.” None of these studies were conducted in the United States, and sociocultural contexts significantly affect perceptions of SMI. Objective: The purpose of this inquiry was to explore a medical–surgical nurse’s perceptions of caring for a hospitalized person with SMI in the United States. Design: A qualitative, descriptive case study was used. RESULTS: The nurse’s experience was characterized by categories of tension, discomfort, lack of professional satisfaction, and difficult. Conclusions: This case study revealed a negative care experience, similar to conclusions of investigations conducted in other countries. Understanding of nurses’ care experiences can inform efforts to improve practice environments, provide resources, or develop models of care that support nurses who care for patients with SMI and improve health outcomes for people with SMI.