Patient and Personnel Conceptions of the Patient-Nurse Relationship in Psychiatric Post-Ward Out-Patient Services

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze and describe the conceptions of patients and personnel concerning the patient-nurse relationship in psychiatric post-ward out-patient services. Aphenomenographic approach was used. The four main categories were patient’s appearance, behavior, and nonverbal expression; empowering of the patient; characteristics of patient-nurse relationship; and setting and maintaining limits. Especially in psychiatric nursing, the significance of the patient-nurse relationship needs to be emphasized. In a successful and collaborative patient-nurse relationship, the patient learns to care for him/herself and to restore interest in taking care of him/herself and surviving in everyday life.