What is the role of the nurse in addressing psychotic disorders?
People who have had near-psychotic experiences may come into contact with healthcare services, whether in hospitals, in the community, or both. These experiences often have an emotional and functional impact on the affected individual and their support network.
The nurse is present in all areas of care, participating in each person's journey, with a clear mission encompassing two functions: caring and supporting . To achieve this, it is essential to establish a therapeutic relationship, that is, a bond of trust that fosters open, honest, and horizontal communication. This bond can only be built by maintaining an open attitude and demonstrating tolerance and respect for the individual and their moral and ethical values.
Once this relationship is established, we address important aspects of the care provided to those we serve. We understand that a fundamental role of the nurse is to help patients understand their symptoms , as their impact significantly affects their lives. We will reflect on what these symptoms are and work to understand them and give them meaning.
Caring for people with serious mental disorders in their environment
Some symptoms related to the psychological sphere cause suffering, so the first step is to empathize and try to alleviate the distress . This requires maintaining an attitude of listening and empathy. Subsequently, it is necessary to provide information to help manage these moments of anxiety.
The presence of symptoms can also lead to changes in physical functioning: fatigue, tension, weight loss or gain, abandonment of healthy habits, etc. One of the nurse's roles is to work with the patient to identify the changes they have experienced and their causes. This allows us to implement motivational interventions to optimize physical health .
To empathize and try to calm the distress of the person being cared for, it is necessary to maintain an attitude of listening and closeness.
On the other hand, given that the environment is a fundamental factor, it is crucial to have trusted individuals who can be part of each person's recovery process: family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, etc. Together with them, we address important aspects for effective communication and resolve any doubts that may arise during the process.
What are psychotic disorders?
Together with the healthcare team, we discuss topics related to medication , how it is used, and its potential side effects. In this regard, we address a wide range of issues, from hygiene and dietary guidelines to follow during certain treatments to problems with sexual or reproductive function.
The nurse can also provide information and advice on relaxation techniques, assertive communication, impulse control, physical health, or drug use.
The nurse must be accessible and adaptable to manage any changes that may arise.
During periods when symptoms lessen or disappear, the warning signs that the person identifies are addressed, and a joint plan is established based on respect and mutual agreement, so that fair and consensual measures can be implemented if the situation changes.
Given that life processes are unique to each person, the nurse must be accessible and adaptable to manage any changes that may arise.
In conclusion, the true challenge of our profession lies in providing support at all stages of life , offering warmth and closeness in moments of strangeness and loneliness, but also sharing the satisfactions and achievements attained along the way.
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