Background: By delving into the narratives of compassion and challenges, this research sought to provide a comprehensive portrait of the daily realities faced by mental health nurses in the Philippines. The researchers aspired to contribute valuable insights that will not only enrich the academic discourse on mental health nursing but also intended to serve as a catalyst for positive change, enhancing the support structures for mental health nurses and, by extension, elevating the standard of care for those struggling with mental health challenges in the Philippines.
Methods:The study utilized phenomenological qualitative research design to gather data from twenty (20) mental health nurses purposely chosen from mental health institutions in the Philippines, utilizing researcher-made interview questionnaire. The researchers employed Colaizzi's approach to data analysis.
Result:The researchers and acquired three (3) themes: compassionate care of mental health nurses, challenges of mental health nurses, and keys towards quality nursing care of mental health nurses, respectively. Under the first theme, four sub-themes were independent nursing care, holistic approach for patient-care, collaborative multidisciplinary approaches, and health education. The second theme has three sub-themes which includes maintaining therapeutic nurse-patient relationship, personal and professional hurdles, and thoughts and feelings. The third theme acquired three sub-themes which are comprehensive therapeutic strategies, competence and professional development, and empowering own well-being.
Conclusion:In conclusion, handling patients with maladaptive behavior highlights the profound compassion and challenges exhibited by nurses in various dimensions of their practice and the key towards achieving quality nursing care in mental health necessitates a multifaceted approach.