NURSING CARE IN A STATE HOSPITAL BEFORE AND DURING THE INTRODUCTION OF ANTIPSYCHOTICS, 1950–1965

Abstract

Oral history methods were used to describe the experiences of American nurses who practiced in a state mental hospital before and during the introduction of antipsychotic medications. The nurses described their responsibilities for supervising staff, administering patient care, and assisting with special psychiatric treatments. They expressed resignation and frustration with trying to provide care despite obstacles such as unqualified physicians, crowded wards, and inadequate personnel and supplies. The nurses adopted a Cartesian approach in which they focused on the patient's body, instead of the patient's mind, and developed camaraderie among nurses through which they found acceptance and were able to continue to do a thankless job.