Rose Chapman1, Catherine Martin2. 1. Monash Health, 135 David Street, Dandenong, Vic. 3175, Australia; Australian Catholic University, 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy Vic 3065, Australia; Curtin University, Kent Street Bentley, WA, Australia. Electronic address: rose.chapman@southernhealth.org.au. 2. Monash Health, 135 David Street, Dandenong, Vic. 3175, Australia; Australian Catholic University, 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy Vic 3065, Australia.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/ BACKGROUND: Attitude of staff towards patients who present to the emergency department following deliberate self-poisoning may be integral to the outcome of these events. There is little in-depth understanding of emergency staff perceptions about this vulnerable group. AIM: Explore staff perceptions about caring for patients who present to the emergency department following deliberate self-poisoning. DESIGN: Qualitative descriptive study. METHODS: Two open-ended questions enabled 186 clinicians to describe their perceptions about caring for people who present to the emergency department following deliberate self-poisoning. Data were analysed using qualitative data analysis procedures. RESULTS: Three themes emerged from the data representing staff perceptions about caring for patients who deliberately self-poisoned and included depends on the patient, treat everyone the same, and skilled and confident to manage these patients. CONCLUSION: Staff reported mixed reactions to patients presenting with deliberate self-poisoning. These included feelings of empathy or frustration, and many lacked the skills and confidence to effectively manage these patients. RELEVANCE TO PRACTICE: Health networks are required to ensure that emergency staff have specialist support, knowledge, skills, and guidelines to provide effective care for this vulnerable population.
INTRODUCTION/ BACKGROUND: Attitude of staff towards patients who present to the emergency department following deliberate self-poisoning may be integral to the outcome of these events. There is little in-depth understanding of emergency staff perceptions about this vulnerable group. AIM: Explore staff perceptions about caring for patients who present to the emergency department following deliberate self-poisoning. DESIGN: Qualitative descriptive study. METHODS: Two open-ended questions enabled 186 clinicians to describe their perceptions about caring for people who present to the emergency department following deliberate self-poisoning. Data were analysed using qualitative data analysis procedures. RESULTS: Three themes emerged from the data representing staff perceptions about caring for patients who deliberately self-poisoned and included depends on the patient, treat everyone the same, and skilled and confident to manage these patients. CONCLUSION: Staff reported mixed reactions to patients presenting with deliberate self-poisoning. These included feelings of empathy or frustration, and many lacked the skills and confidence to effectively manage these patients. RELEVANCE TO PRACTICE: Health networks are required to ensure that emergency staff have specialist support, knowledge, skills, and guidelines to provide effective care for this vulnerable population.