Nursing Practice Environment in Psychiatric Units: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The practice environment is a key element that influences the quality of psychiatric-mental health nursing care; however, little is known about it. For the current study, to explore the evidence on environmental factors influencing nursing practice in psychiatric inpatient units, a scoping review of primary research published between 2009 and 2019 was performed. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINAHL databases were searched. Eleven articles were included. Main findings were: (a) the biomedical approach limits the development of the nursing model; (b) lack of opportunities, representation, and recognition of nurses in the organization; (c) greater support from managers for a greater perception of nurses' competence and therapeutic commitment; and (d) the need for a feeling of belonging to the team and the perception of emotional exhaustion, workload, and administrative tasks. Although psychiatric nurses have a slightly positive view of their practice environment, certain factors limit quality of care. The current review points to the need for nurses to have greater organizational support and the importance of promoting effective teamwork. Implications for mental health services include the need for support and recognition by managers, as well as the existence of a nursing model within the units. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 59(11), 33-40.].