Identify three common and expected emotional reactions that a nurse might have when initially working with persons who manifest suicidal behavior disorder. Discuss actions and interventions the nurse would need to take to keep the patient safe. As the nurse working with this population, what are resources available to the nurse to assist in dealing with personal feelings about the event and obtain support?
When working with individuals who exhibit suicidal behavior disorder, nurses may experience a range of emotional reactions. These reactions are often influenced by the gravity and complexity of the situation. This essay will identify three common and expected emotional reactions that a nurse may have when initially working with such individuals, discuss actions and interventions the nurse should take to ensure patient safety, and explore available resources for nurses to manage their personal feelings and obtain support.
One common emotional reaction that nurses may initially experience when working with patients who manifest suicidal behavior disorder is anxiety. Anxiety may arise from the fear of the patient’s safety and concerns about their ability to effectively intervene and prevent self-harm. This reaction is rooted in the nurse’s professional responsibility to ensure the well-being of their patients. To address this anxiety and ensure patient safety, the nurse should prioritize their assessment skills and accurately identify risk factors for suicide. By conducting a thorough assessment, the nurse can establish a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s mental health status and identify the severity of their suicidal ideation or intent. This will enable the nurse to develop an appropriate and individualized safety plan that addresses the specific needs of the patient. The safety plan may include measures such as constant observation, removal of potential harm objects, and communication with other healthcare team members or family members to provide additional support and supervision for the patient.
Another emotional reaction that nurses may experience when working with individuals who exhibit suicidal behavior disorder is fear. Fear may arise from the uncertainty surrounding the patient’s intentions and the potential consequences of their actions. The nurse’s fear may also be related to their own feelings of helplessness and the perceived weight of responsibility in preventing the patient from causing self-harm. To address this fear, the nurse must maintain open and honest communication with the patient. Building a trusting relationship with the patient allows the nurse to engage in therapeutic conversations, explore the patient’s thoughts and feelings, and assess the level of immediate danger. By establishing a supportive and non-judgmental environment, the nurse can encourage the patient to share their distress and collaboratively develop coping strategies. It is crucial for the nurse to validate the patient’s emotions and normalizing the experience to reduce any perceived stigma or shame associated with suicidal ideation.
Guilt is another common emotional reaction that nurses may experience when working with individuals who manifest suicidal behavior disorder. Guilt may arise from feelings of inadequacy or self-blame, as nurses may question whether they have done enough to prevent the patient’s self-harm. It is essential for nurses to recognize and address these feelings of guilt promptly. To manage guilt in the nursing practice, the nurse should engage in self-care practices, such as debriefing sessions and self-reflection exercises. These practices allow the nurse to process and express their emotions in a supportive environment, reducing the emotional burden associated with guilt. The nurse should also seek supervision or consult with other experienced professionals for guidance and feedback. This can provide a perspective outside of their own and validate their efforts in managing the patient’s safety. Engaging in ongoing education and professional development opportunities can also enhance the nurse’s skills and knowledge in managing suicidal behavior disorder, thus reducing guilt associated with perceived lack of competence.
To obtain support and manage their personal feelings about working with individuals who manifest suicidal behavior disorder, nurses can access various resources. One essential resource is peer support. Connecting with other nurses who have experience in similar situations can provide a sense of solidarity and understanding, allowing for the exchange of experiences and coping strategies. Additionally, organizations such as the American Association of Suicidology and the International Association for Suicide Prevention offer resources, guidelines, and conferences that can enhance nursing knowledge and provide opportunities for networking and support. Clinical supervision is another valuable resource for nurses, as it enables them to discuss challenging cases and seek guidance from experienced professionals. Finally, individual therapy or counseling can be beneficial in helping nurses process their emotions and develop effective coping mechanisms for managing the complex emotional demands of their profession.
In conclusion, nurses working with individuals who exhibit suicidal behavior disorder may experience various emotional reactions. These reactions, including anxiety, fear, and guilt, can be addressed through appropriate actions and interventions. By conducting comprehensive assessments, engaging in therapeutic communication, and practicing self-care, nurses can ensure patient safety and manage their personal feelings. Additionally, accessing available resources such as peer support, professional organizations, clinical supervision, and individual therapy can provide further assistance and support for nurses in dealing with the emotional challenges of working with this population.