Experiences of Dutch ambulance nurses in emergency care for patients with acute manic and/or psychotic symptoms: A qualitative study

PURPOSE To explore the experiences of ambulance nurses in emergency care of patients with acute manic and/or psychotic symptoms. METHODS In this qualitative study, 14 interviews were conducted and analyzed using thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke (2006). FINDINGS Psychiatric emergency care causes stress and uncomfortable feelings for ambulance nurses due to a lack of information on the patients, being alone with the patient in a small place and the unpredictability of the situation. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS More information about the specific patient, education, and good collaboration with other professionals could improve care.