Experience of adolescents in mental health inpatient units: A metasynthesis of qualitative evidence.

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Inpatient treatment is often necessary due to the vulnerability of adolescents' mental health, and hospitalization rates are increasing. There are both positive and negative experiences related to adolescent inpatient treatment. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER ADD TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Inpatient ward environment and interactions with staff and peers are critical in adolescents' nursing care while undergoing inpatient treatment. Adolescents want their voice to be reflected in the treatment process, including within the discharge plan. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Mental health nurses should establish a therapeutic milieu for adolescents to feel stable and safe so that inpatient treatment can become a positive experience. Mental health nurses should apply a person-centred approach to adolescents so that adolescents can participate in decision-making during the inpatient treatment process. ABSTRACT: Introduction Mental health inpatient treatment is necessary and increasing in adolescents due to their mental health vulnerability. Few studies have comprehensively reviewed adolescents' hospitalization experience. Aim To gain an in-depth understanding of the mental health inpatient experience from adolescents' perspectives. Method Six electronic databases, manual searches and citation searches were completed for studies published within the last 10 years. Eight articles were included, and thematic analysis was used. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklist was applied to assess data quality. Results Three main themes were identified: Experiences of hospitalization, perceived outcomes and preparing for discharge. These themes included both positive and negative experiences. Discussion The environment and interactions within the ward were critical to adolescents' nursing care. Positive relationship experiences were important for adolescents to adapt well and consequently achieve beneficial inpatient treatment results. Additionally, adolescents wanted to participate in the decision-making process related to their treatment during hospitalization. Implications for Practice Mental health nurses have a responsibility to be sensitive to adolescents' mental health status during hospitalization and to understand the significance of providers' support in leading them to recovery. Nurses need to establish a more stable ward environment and form positive relationships through respect for adolescents' intentions.