Emergency department nurses’ learning and evolving perspectives in interacting with patients who self-harm. An explorative interview study of the use of a mobile application

Abstract

SAFE is a mobile application co-created for and by people who have experienced self-harm, either themselves or as next of kin. This study intended to integrate SAFE into an Emergency Department (ED) to help patients share experiences of self-harm and to support professionals in conducting treatment as usual (TAU). Objective: This study was a part of a Co-operative Inquiry in which a learning intervention was implemented, followed by an interview study exploring ED nurses’ reflections and learnings while integrating SAFE into their practice. Methods: Thirteen semi-structured interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: The nurses imagined that SAFE could be a positive game changer. However, they were hesitant due to uncertainty about the ED context, the value of the app and their skills. Conclusions: Supplying TAU with technology is challenging and future digital solutions must be created in partnership to ensure the solutions are customised to the target group.