The Mental Health Nurse Role in the Near-Death Experience
Abstract
In the past, much attention has been paid to avoid labeling the person who has had a near-death experience (NDE) with a psychological condition. Numerous researchers of near-death studies have stressed that although the phenomenon is not believed to be a result of psychopathology, the repercussion of having an NDE can cause adjustment problems for the near-death experienced (NDEr). NDErs have reported a sense of alienation from others and from their previously held concept of themselves. Accounts of distressing NDEs are more prevalent than previously believed and due to their traumatic nature may be even more difficult for the NDEr to work through. Mental health nurses are the ideal resource to assist with these clients and more attention needs to be directed toward assessing for a possible NDE. It is important for mental health nurses to become involved with NDE clients whether in or outside of a psychiatric setting. Helping clients adjust to life changes and their emotional impacts, self-concept issues, and working through traumatic experiences are all relevant to mental health nursing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA275333
Entities
People
- Barbara J. Holmstedt-mark
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology