A research team from Australian Catholic University is investigating how nurses organise and provide care within organisational conditions of older mental health inpatient settings.

Patients often present with a combination of mental illness, dementia, confusion and behavioural disturbance. These wards are complex and fast-paced environments, requiring continuous decisions about what care is required, what should be addressed first, and what can safely be managed later.

The focus of the study is on the practical processes nurses use to structure their work across a shift, including how they assess patient needs, interpret changing clinical situations, allocate time and attention between competing tasks, and adjust priorities as new demands arise.

The study aims to contribute to a better understanding of everyday nursing work in this setting.

Eligible participants must be, or have previously been, a registered or enrolled nurse in Australia, with at least 12 months of direct clinical care experience in OAMH public inpatient settings in a permanent role, and currently working in, or having left within the past 12 months.

To take part in the project, click the following link – https://redcap.acu.edu.au/surveys/?s=CKJAHHLKY9JELFRF

For more information, contact Michelle Chan at [email protected]