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.