Working as a psychiatric nurse at a nightshift ward can be both challenging and rewarding. Nightshifts can be particularly demanding as patients may experience increased anxiety, confusion, or agitation during the nighttime. The lack of sunlight and the disruption of the normal daily routine can exacerbate mental health symptoms for some patients.
Patients in psychiatric wards may come into your room crying or shouting due to various reasons, such as feeling overwhelmed, experiencing a crisis, or displaying symptoms related to their mental health conditions. Here are some strategies psychiatric nurses often use to handle such situations:
Stay calm and composed: Remaining calm is essential in a crisis situation. Your demeanor can influence the patient's emotional state, so it's crucial to remain composed and not react emotionally.
Active listening: Allow the patient to express their feelings and concerns without interrupting them. Show empathy and understanding, even if you don't fully comprehend their emotions.
Validate their emotions: Let the patient know that their feelings are valid and acknowledged. Avoid dismissing or downplaying their emotions, as this can escalate the situation.
Provide a safe space: Ensure the patient feels safe and respected in the environment. Sometimes, simply being present and attentive can help a distressed patient feel more at ease.
Use de-escalation techniques: Employ de-escalation techniques to defuse tense situations. These techniques involve using a calm tone, avoiding confrontation, and suggesting coping strategies.
Assess for safety risks: Evaluate the patient's risk of harm to themselves or others. If the situation seems potentially dangerous, call for assistance from colleagues or security personnel.
Communicate with the treatment team: Keep the rest of the healthcare team informed about the patient's emotional state and any significant changes in their behavior.
Offer coping strategies: If appropriate, provide the patient with coping mechanisms to manage their distress. Breathing exercises, grounding techniques, or redirecting their focus can be helpful.
Follow hospital protocols: Comply with the established protocols and procedures for handling patients in distress, including when to involve other healthcare professionals or security.
Self-care: Working in a high-stress environment can take a toll on nurses' mental well-being. Engage in self-care practices to cope with the emotional demands of the job.
Every patient is unique, and the way psychiatric nurses handle individual situations will vary based on the person's needs and the policies of the psychiatric ward. Compassion, patience, and effective communication are vital attributes for psychiatric nurses working during the nightshift. Their commitment to helping patients in their most vulnerable moments contributes significantly to their well-being and recovery.