Emergency care in case of acute psychotic and/or manic symptoms: Lived experiences of patients and their families with the first interventions of a mobile crisis team. A phenomenological study

Purpose To explore the lived experiences of patients with a psychotic or bipolar disorder and their families with emergency care during the first contact with a mobile crisis team. Methods Open individual interviews were held with ten patients and ten family members. Content data-analysis was conducted. Findings Communication and cooperation was difficult in several cases. Personal crisis plans were not always used. Stigma was felt, especially when police-assistance was needed. A calm, understanding attitude was appreciated. Practice Implications Focus explicitly on communication with the patient, despite the acute condition, enhances the chance of cooperation. Taking time for contact is important.