Recognising the Value of Everyday Interactions in Inpatient CAMHS: Patient Thank-You Letters as Insights Into Nursing Impact

This study explores patient feedback through unsolicited thank-you letters, asking: What insights do these letters provide into impactful nursing practices in inpatient CAMHS? Using an exploratory qualitative approach, data from two focus groups with mental health nurses (MHNs) and an online questionnaire were analysed through thematic analysis, identifying three key themes—‘Being Present,’ ‘Being Skilful,’ and ‘Being Human.’ Findings reveal that thank-you letters offer unique, spontaneous insights into the aspects of nursing care young people value most, highlighting everyday interactions over structured clinical interventions. However, these relational aspects of care are often undervalued in inpatient settings. To ensure they are recognised and sustained, inpatient CAMHS should integrate thank-you letters into staff training, reflective practice, and service development. This study underscores the need to reframe everyday nursing interactions as essential rather than incidental, recognising their critical role in therapeutic engagement and patient well-being.