The profile of nurses in psychiatric units: Istanbul sample

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Nurses are the backbone of the workforce in mental healthcare. However, profile studies of nurses working in mental health services are limited, and provide inadequate qualitative and quantitative evidence about the characteristics, roles and functions of nurses who work in psychiatric settings. The aim of this study was to examine and provide a profile of nurses working in Istanbul psychiatric care units METHODS: A descriptive and cross-sectional design was used to analyze the personal characteristics, work conditions, and job-related experiences of 307 nurses working in psychiatric service units in Istanbul in 2018-2019. Data were collected using a 46-question digital survey of personal and professional experiences, services performed, and work conditions RESULTS: The nurses’ responses revealed that they felt that the patient/nurse ratio was insufficient and that the physical environment was inadequate, there was a lack of sufficient safety, and insufficient support personnel. Nurses still fulfill a very traditional role in psychiatric settings. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study illustrates some of the work-related concerns and experiences of nurses serving in psychiatric service units. A greater focus on personal, recovery-centered care according to evidence-based standards for the patient/nurse ratio and other international criteria and knowledge is needed.