Exploring the Perceptions and Experiences of Nursing Technicians Regarding the Implementation of a Relapse Prevention Educational Program for Patients with Schizophrenia in a Psychiatric Hospital: A Qualitative Study in KSA

Abstract

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness characterized by disturbances in thought, perception, and behavior. Relapse prevention is a critical component of schizophrenia management, as relapses can lead to significant personal, social, and economic burdens. Nursing technicians play a vital role in implementing relapse prevention educational programs for patients with schizophrenia in psychiatric hospitals. This qualitative study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of nursing technicians regarding the implementation of a relapse prevention educational program for patients with schizophrenia in a psychiatric hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 15 nursing technicians involved in the implementation of the program. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Four main themes emerged from the analysis: 1) the importance of relapse prevention education, 2) challenges in implementing the program, 3) strategies to overcome challenges, and 4) the impact of the program on patient outcomes. The findings highlight the crucial role of nursing technicians in implementing relapse prevention educational programs and the need for ongoing support, training, and resources to ensure the success of such programs. The study provides valuable insights into the experiences of nursing technicians and offers recommendations for improving the implementation of relapse prevention educational programs in psychiatric hospitals in KSA.