Recovery-oriented nursing service for people with schizophrenia in the community: An integrative review

Background: The recovery-oriented service concept has been recognized for its impact on
mental health practices and services. As the largest group of mental healthcare providers,
mental health nurses are well-positioned to deliver recovery-oriented services but face
challenges due to role ambiguity and identity issues. Therefore, clarifying the role and
principles of mental health nursing is essential.
Objective: This study aimed to identify essential nursing practices for individuals with
schizophrenia in recovery-oriented mental health services.
Design: The study utilized a five-step integrative review approach, including problem
identification, literature search definition, critical analysis of methodological quality, data
analysis, and data presentation.
Data Sources: Multiple databases, such as ScienceDirect and Scopus, as well as online
libraries and journals/publishers, including Sage journals, APA PsyNet, SpringerLink,
PsychiatryOnline, Taylor & Francis Online, and Wiley Online Library, were searched. The
search spanned from the inception of the recovery-oriented services concept in 1993 to 2022.
Review Methods: Content and thematic analysis were employed to analyze and synthesize
the findings from the included studies.
Results: Twenty-four articles met the inclusion criteria. Two themes were identified: 1) Direct
nursing care, consisting of six sub-themes: therapeutic nurse-patient relationship (TNPR),
psychoeducation (PE), coping skill training (CST), cognitive behavioral techniques (CBT),
interventions to improve medication adherence (IMA), and social functioning (SF); and 2)
Indirect nursing care.
Conclusion: This study highlights the crucial role of nursing and nursing practices in recoveryoriented services. Mental health nurses prioritize person-centered care, therapeutic
relationships, and collaboration with peer support workers to enhance treatment effectiveness.
In addition, they focus on improving medication adherence, providing coping support, and
promoting social capabilities, ultimately improving individuals’ quality of life. Aligning actions
with recovery-oriented principles, mental health nurses emphasize empowerment and holistic
care. Further research in this area will enhance the healthcare system and better support
individuals on their recovery journey.