Nursing in Psychiatric Emergency, Challenges and Future Recommendations. A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Psychiatric emergencies pose significant challenges for nursing staff, impacting both patient care and the well-being of healthcare professionals. This scoping review aims to explore the difficulties nurses face in psychiatric emergency settings and identify future recommendations for improvement. A scoping review was conducted using Arksey & O'Malley's framework and adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Literature research was performed across multiple databases, including 12 peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2024 that focused on nursing challenges in psychiatric emergencies. The review identified seven key challenges nurses face, including a high-stress environment and inadequate resources. Furthermore, eight recommendations were proposed, including enhanced training programs and increased interdisciplinary collaboration. Addressing these challenges through targeted recommendations can improve care quality in psychiatric emergencies. Emphasizing training, adequate staffing, and supportive systems is crucial for workforce resilience and effective patient management. Optimizing nursing practices in psychiatric emergencies is essential for enhancing patient outcomes and supporting nursing staff, ultimately fostering a more effective mental health care system.