Providing a safe environment in a psychiatric ward: Nurses and vigilance in Iran

The aim of this study was to explore nurses’ use of vigilance in the provision of inpatient psychiatric care. In this qualitative exploratory descriptive design study, 16 nurses working in inpatient psychiatric units were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected by semi-structured interviews and fieldwork observations and analysed using conventional content analysis. According to participants, nurses’ vigilance is related to synthesising knowledge, experience, communication, and presence. This conclusion was derived from four main themes: understanding the context of the psychiatric ward; continuous monitoring; cognitive assessments; and involving others. The study highlights the significance of education for all mental health staff and provision of appropriate information to all patients and their companions about psychiatric disorders and the side effects of prescribed medications. Of importance is the skill of active listening to the concerns of patients and the demonstration of commitment by nurses to follow-up on reports from stakeholders. Imparting the skills and experiences of senior nurses to novice nurses and their presence alongside other nurses on work-shifts can be effective in promoting vigilance.