Perspectives of Nurses and Adolescents About Pro Re Nata Treatment in Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatric Units: A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

Introduction: 'Pro re nata' (PRN) treatment, commonly prescribed in adolescent psychiatric inpatient units, is administered on an ad hoc basis to address specific symptoms. It is prescribed in advance and delivered by nurses when the situation requires it.

Question: This study aims to explore the lived experience of adolescents and nurses during the use of PRN treatment in adolescent psychiatric inpatient settings and to cross these perspectives.

Method: This qualitative study used a specific qualitative research method called Inductive Process to analyse the Structure of lived Experience (IPSE), a five-stage descriptive phenomenological approach based on an inductive process. IPSE was specifically designed for health research by methodologists with extensive experience in qualitative health research. The study followed the SRQR guidelines for qualitative research. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews.

Results: The study included 14 adolescents and 12 nurses. Data analysis revealed a structure of experience with three axes: individual, relational and group.

Discussion: PRN treatment in inpatient settings contributes to the development of agency and empowerment for both adolescents and nurses.

Limitations: This study was conducted in France, where PRN is referred to as 'si besoin' (if necessary), and was carried out within the unique context of an inpatient setting.

Recommendations: The efficacy of PRN treatment should be evaluated not only for its therapeutic effects but also in consideration of the institutional and developmental factors surrounding its use.