Working with People Presenting with Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder: The Attitudes, Knowledge and Confidence of Mental Health Nurses in Crisis Response Roles in Australia

Abstract

Many people diagnosed with or presenting with borderline personality disorder (BPD) attend the emergency department (ED) when in crisis, and are often referred to mental health nurses for further assessment, and to arrange appropriate follow-up (MHNs). Little is known about the knowledge, skills, confidence and competence of MHNs working with this group in these specialist roles. This study sought to describe the attitudes of MHNs working in EDs and crisis services towards people who present with symptoms characteristic of BPD and to explore their knowledge of the diagnostic criteria of BPD. A descriptive survey tool comprised of 23 questions was adapted from a previously used survey with clinicians in a mental health service in Australia. Fifty-four nurses who identified as MHNs and were currently employed in EDs or crisis settings completed the survey online. These MHNs were found to hold positive attitudes towards people with BPD including being optimistic about recovery and treatment. The experience and education of MHNs now employed in EDs may have contributed to positive attitudes and self-reported confidence relative to other nurses. Further research ought to focus on how MHNs assist people with a diagnosis of BPD who present in crisis meet immediate needs and facilitate access to effective ongoing care and treatment.

Acknowledgments

We would like to acknowledge Associate professor Marc Broadbent and Dr Karen-Ann Clarke for their involvement in the initial conceptualisation of the project.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.