Introduction

Nurses often work in the community with adolescents who self-harm. There is a lack of qualitative research exploring nurses’ experiences of working with adolescents who self-harm.

Aim

This study aimed to gain an understanding of community nurses’ experiences of working with adolescents who self-harm.

Method

Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted with registered nurses working in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in the United Kingdom (UK).

Results

Data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Two superordinate themes were identified, each consisting of two subordinate themes: personal and professional conflicts, describing interpersonal and intrapersonal conflicts the nurses experienced working with adolescents who self-harm and the systems around them, and personal and professional development, outlining processes of management of conflicts and development.

Discussion

Nurses feel conflicted about working with adolescents who self-harm within the context of working with systems surrounding the adolescent. They report positive experiences, which they use to reframe their experiences and feelings of shame as a result of their emotional responses, self-care behaviours and personal and professional boundaries.

Implications for Practice

Nurses working with adolescents who self-harm would benefit from training, reflective practice and self-care. CAMHS managers should encourage and invest in these areas.