Abstract:
Introduction: Psychiatric nursing plays a critical role in the healthcare system, yet the specialisation is often met with reluctance from many nurses. In Malawi, psychiatric nursing remains underdeveloped due to various challenges, including societal stigma, lack of proper training and insufficient financial incentives. Despite the growing need for qualified psychiatric nurses, there was limited research on nurses' perceptions and attitudes toward pursuing psychiatric nursing as a career.
Aim: To assess perceptions and attitudes of nurses towards psychiatric nursing as a career, and determine the factors that influence their decisions to pursue this specialty.
Methodology: The research utilized a concurrent triangulation mixed methods approach, carried out at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital and Zomba Central Hospital. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were employed to choose 219 participants, with data gathered using structured questionnaires and a semi-structured interview guide. Quantitative data were examined with descriptive statistics, whereas qualitative data were assessed using thematic analysis
Results: The study revealed that most nurses perceived that mentally ill patients should be cared for by psychiatric nurses, with 79.9% agreeing. Regarding attitudes, while the majority (87.1%) feel mentally ill patients should be treated with respect, 61.7% perceive societal stigma as a barrier to pursuing psychiatric nursing and 73.4% would feel uncomfortable if a family member chose this career. Factors influencing nurses' attitudes and perceptions toward psychiatric nursing include personal motivation and interest, perceived challenges, insufficient career opportunities and social and cultural influence.
Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of training, improved working conditions, and addressing societal stigma in encouraging nurses to pursue psychiatric nursing. It also emphasises the need for support to enhance nurses' confidence and satisfaction in this specialised field.
