Patient Experiences of a Recovery-Oriented Nursing Programme in Inpatient Psychiatric Care: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Patient experiences of recovery-oriented nursing practices in psychiatric inpatient care are understudied. Steps Towards Recovery (STR) is a nursing-led programme developed to promote personal recovery through empowering each patient's ability to identify resources, find solutions and gain control over one's life. Aim: The aim was to evaluate patients' experiences of participating in STR. Method: Interviews with 18 patients participating in STR group sessions at a psychiatric inpatient clinic. Data were inductively analysed with applied thematic analysis. Results: Three themes were identified. STR group sessions, with the manual-based contents, seem beneficial for taking the first steps towards a personal recovery process. Participants described an increased ability to see things from different angles, could focus their thoughts more positively, and underlined the importance of maintaining these strategies after discharge. Group leaders' skills related to psychiatric inpatient care were also reflected on. Discussion: STR seems to promote personal recovery. Psychiatric inpatient care requires group leaders trained in STR with competence to manage advanced psychiatric nursing care. Limitations: Data were collected at one clinic, decreasing transferability. Implications: Recovery-oriented programmes in psychiatric wards can support patients' first steps towards recovery. Recommendations: Nursing-led programmes supporting personal recovery should be implemented in psychiatric wards.