The nurse bombarded, consumed and vulnerable: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of mental health nurses' self‐care at work

• DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12956
• Publication Date: 2023-08-03T07:49:35Z
• Authors: Maria O'Malley; James O'Mahony; Brenda Happell; Helen Mulcahy
• Keywords: Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Abstract Introduction Self‐care is essential for nurses' wellbeing, with stress posing a major barrier. Research into self‐care often absorbed studies of burnout or resilience. Understanding lived experiences influences on practices essential. There currently paucity literature this topic. Aim To explore mental health views about what their ability to in relation workplace and the impact practice work environment. Methods An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis approach was utilized. In‐depth interviews explored how nurses perceived influence environment relationships workplace. Results Participants' perceptions are embodied by theme: nurse bombarded , comprising two subordinate themes—the consumed intensity therapeutic relationships; feeling vulnerable from colleague undervalued. Participants described conflict between workload demands expectations desire provide optimal care. Conclusions Stressful working environments pose barriers effective self‐care. Feeling vulnerable, impacts lives personally professionally. Implications Practice Mental crucial quality practice. Strategies address relational, personal environmental therefore necessary.