A unique program for nursing students to enhance their mentalization capabilities in relation to clinical thinking

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Psychology
• Healthcare Communication

Background:

• Providing patient-centered care can be challenging due to emotionally charged situations.
• Nurses require strong mentalization capabilities for effective therapeutic responses and self-well-being.
• Existing training may not adequately address the emotional demands on nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel program designed to enhance mentalization abilities in nursing students.
• To equip students with communication skills for navigating emotionally challenging patient interactions.
• To improve nurses' capacity for emotional regulation and patient care.

Main Methods:

• A holistic, four-year program conducted in small groups.
• Led by experienced clinical nurses and psychologists.
• Curriculum focuses on identifying emotional triggers, their impact on mentalization, and developing coping strategies based on real clinical experiences.

Main Results:

• Students learn to recognize personal emotional loads and their effect on mentalization.
• Students acquire alternative coping patterns for emotional self-regulation.
• The program aims to foster enhanced therapeutic communication and patient care.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced mentalization is crucial for nurses managing complex emotional situations.
• This program provides a structured approach to developing essential skills for nursing practice.
• Integrating emotional regulation training improves both nurse well-being and patient care quality.