Nurses' Experience of Maintaining Their Therapeutic Relationship With Outpatients With Bipolar Disorder and Their Caregivers During Different Stages of a Manic Episode: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Purpose: Caregivers often consult community mental health (CMH) nurses when they recognize prodromes of mania in the outpatient. The purpose of this study was to determine nurses' experiences of their therapeutic relationship and nursing interventions to outpatients and caregivers during different stages of mania. Design and Methods: A qualitative study was conducted. Nine nurses were interviewed. Findings: CMH nurses experienced dual loyalty when facing conflicting interests. They strived to stay connected to patients and caregivers with an open and nonjudgmental attitude. In euthymic episodes, nurses anticipated by developing good relationships with both and by making relapse prevention plan. Practice Implications: Early involvement of caregivers in the treatment is recommended.