Nursing Management of Intoxicated Persons under Involuntary Legislation in Emergency Departments in Metropolitan Queensland, Australia; A Focused Ethnography Study.

Abstract

This research investigates the nursing management of intoxicated individuals treated under involuntary legislation in the emergency departments (EDs) of metropolitan hospitals in Queensland, Australia. A qualitative research approach was employed, using focused ethnography to conduct interviews with nurses working in these settings. The goal was to gain insight into their experiences with involuntary legislation when caring for patients intoxicated by alcohol. The study examined how ED nurses manage individuals during the intoxication phase, a time when impaired decision-making can lead to risks of self-harm or harm through misadventure. It also explored the legislative options available to nurses and how they implement them for involuntary assessment, treatment, and care. The aim of this research was to offer insight into nurses' perspectives on the current management of intoxication in EDs in Queensland, fostering discussion on what constitutes effective legal decision-making, and encouraging further research and development in this area.