Lucy O'Neill1, Judith Johnson2, Rachel Mandela3. 1. Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, School of Medicine, Level 10 Worsley Building, Clarendon Way, Leeds LS2 9NL, UK; Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St. James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds LS9 7TF, UK. Electronic address: lucyoneill@nhs.net. 2. School of Psychology, Lifton Place, University of Leeds, Leeds LS29JT, UK; Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford BD9 6RJ, UK. Electronic address: j.johnson@leeds.ac.uk. 3. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St. James's University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds LS9 7TF, UK. Electronic address: rachel.mandela1@nhs.net.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Liaison psychiatry nurses in Emergency Departments assess and plan onward treatment for individuals, often following self-harm or suicide attempts. These nurses are at high risk of occupational stress. Reflective practice groups may be beneficial, but there is currently no research evaluating this. AIM: We explored nurses' experiences of attending psychology-led reflective practice groups. METHOD: Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 13 nurses was undertaken. RESULTS: Four themes emerged from the data: (i) Sharing and learning; participants discussed how the group provided a platform to share common experiences, express emotions and learn from each other. (ii) Grounding and perspective; participants said the group encouraged reflection on the impact of their work, with a sense of valuing their skills and the difference they make. (iii) Space; participants spoke about the group being a protected, structured and safe space. (iv) Relationships; participants said the group allowed them to support each other and have conversations in a sensitive and non-threatening way. Discussions in the group increased some participants' confidence and self-esteem. DISCUSSION: Some nurses perceive a range of benefits from participating in reflective practice groups. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: For some mental health nurses reflective practice groups are an acceptable and valued intervention which may reduce burnout.
BACKGROUND:Liaison psychiatry nurses in Emergency Departments assess and plan onward treatment for individuals, often following self-harm or suicide attempts. These nurses are at high risk of occupational stress. Reflective practice groups may be beneficial, but there is currently no research evaluating this. AIM: We explored nurses' experiences of attending psychology-led reflective practice groups. METHOD: Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 13 nurses was undertaken. RESULTS: Four themes emerged from the data: (i) Sharing and learning; participants discussed how the group provided a platform to share common experiences, express emotions and learn from each other. (ii) Grounding and perspective; participants said the group encouraged reflection on the impact of their work, with a sense of valuing their skills and the difference they make. (iii) Space; participants spoke about the group being a protected, structured and safe space. (iv) Relationships; participants said the group allowed them to support each other and have conversations in a sensitive and non-threatening way. Discussions in the group increased some participants' confidence and self-esteem. DISCUSSION: Some nurses perceive a range of benefits from participating in reflective practice groups. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: For some mental health nurses reflective practice groups are an acceptable and valued intervention which may reduce burnout.