Reflective practice groups: Are they useful for liaison psychiatry nurses working within the Emergency Department?

Background: Liaison psychiatry nurses in Emergency Departments assess and plan onward treatment for individuals, often following self-harm or suicide attempts. These nurses are at high risk of occupational stress. Reflective practice groups may be beneficial, but there is currently no research evaluating this.

Aim: We explored nurses’ experiences of attending psychology-led reflective practice groups.

Method: Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 13 nurses was undertaken.

Results: Four themes emerged from the data: (i) Sharing and learning; participants discussed how the group provided a platform to share common experiences, express emotions and learn from each other. (ii) Grounding and perspective; participants said the group encouraged reflection on the impact of their work, with a sense of valuing their skills and the difference they make. (iii) Space; participants spoke about the group being a protected, structured and safe space. (iv) Relationships; participants said the group allowed them to support each other and have conversations in a sensitive and non-threatening way. Discussions in the group increased some participants’ confidence and self-esteem.

Discussion: Some nurses perceive a range of benefits from participating in reflective practice groups.

Implications for practice: For some mental health nurses reflective practice groups are an acceptable and valued intervention which may reduce burnout.