Relational Dimensions of a Positive Integration Experience for New Mental Health Nurses

This study investigated the key aspects of a successful integration experience into mental health nursing from the perspectives of new nurses working in a psychiatric institution and revealed that the relational atmosphere in which new nurses find themselves is determinant of their satisfaction with their integration experience.

Abstract

This study investigated the key aspects of a successful integration experience into mental health nursing from the perspectives of new nurses working in a psychiatric institution. Analysis of 10 semistructured interviews revealed that the relational atmosphere in which new nurses find themselves is determinant of their satisfaction with their integration experience. Quality relational connections with patients constitute the primary motivation of new nurses in choosing a career in mental health. At the same time, quality relational connections between and among team members sustain such motivation. Conversely, a negative relational atmosphere sets the stage for new nurses to experience disillusionment and despair.