Student Mental Health Nurses’ Perceptions of Psychological Trauma Education and Its Impact on Their Practice, a Qualitative Study

Background There is a high correlation between a trauma history and development of mental health conditions. By providing safe and containing (trauma-informed) working relationships, mental health nurses can validate mental distress, reduce re-traumatisation and support recovery. Trauma informed education (TIE) has become commonplace in nurse education however, little is known about students’ experience of this and its impact on their practice. Purpose This study aimed to evaluate and explore student mental health nurses’ perspectives on TIE and its impact on their practice to contribute to the knowledge and evidence base that informs nurse and broader healthcare education. Methods This qualitative, phenomenological study used focus group interviews (n=3) with 11 mental health nursing students, reported using SRQR Checklist. Analysis Data generated was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2013) Reflective Thematic Analysis. Findings Three themes were identified: 1. A compass for practice; 2. Mental Health Nursing: Between paradigms; 3. Supporting personal development and wellbeing. Integrating TIE within nurse education can support students to adopt the principles of trauma-informed care (TIC) personally and in their practice. Improved self-awareness, recognition of trauma and adopting self-care strategies were valuable in supporting personal resilience and wellbeing, valuable in managing the challenges of mental health practice. Recommendations TIE has the potential to have a positive impact on wellbeing therefore integration should be considered for all healthcare programmes. Further interprofessional research is needed to establish the longer-term impact of TIE as students’ progress into their professional career. Limitations This is an initial small-scale study with self-selecting students which limits generalisability. Exploring sustained impact through longitudinal study may be valuable.