Nurses' Experiences of Working with Adults Who Have an Intellectual Disability and Challenging Behaviour

Abstract

This article reports the results of a study of registered nurses working with adults with an intellectual disability and challenging behaviour. The purpose of the research was to describe the participants' emotional response to violence and to explore what support they require in dealing with constant exposure to workplace violence. This study has highlighted that working with individuals with an intellectual disability and challenging behaviour is an emotionally distressing job due to the constant anxiety related to the anticipation of violence. The literature review supports the findings that nurses working in the field of intellectual disability are subjected to a greater number of violent incidents than other fields of nursing. The findings of the study married aptly with Howard and Hegarty's (2003) study. The main support staff received was from within their immediate work environment, which had a buffering effect on their levels of stress. Registered nurses who work in the field of intellectual disability and challenging behaviour are the greatest resource and asset of the organisation and improving their well-being will be reflected in the care clients receive.