Dealing With Suicidal Patients – a Challenging Task: a Qualitative Study of Young Physicians’ Experiences

13 newly educated Norwegian physicians narrated their experiences with suicidal patients. 3 main themes were noted: striving for relatedness, intervening competently, & being emotionally involved. The physicians clearly described the variety of emotional & ethical dilemmas that arose in meeting suicidal patients & the professional challenge facing this clinical situation. The findings were interpreted in the perspective of communication, clinical decision-making, & attention to the professional’s emotional reactions. This study provides additional background for educators designing training programs for physicians who will be treating suicidal patients. (34 refs.)