A self-harm training needs assessment of school nurses

Self-harm is acknowledged to be increasing and is especially prevalent in young people. School nurses are central to adolescent mental health, delivering initial and sustained intervention. However, few studies have considered their experiences and training needs in fulfilling this role. This training needs assessment explored the self-harm training needs of school nurses within one UK primary care trust by utilizing questionnaires and interviews developed specifically for the study. School nurses felt frustrated and inadequate when working with young people who self-harm. The majority had attended self-harm training, yet felt that it only helped a little. Nurses desired training, particularly in practical approaches when working with young people who self-harm, however, analysis suggested that they also needed underpinning theoretical knowledge. Therefore, this study highlights the need for self-harm training for school nurses, incorporating both practical approaches and theoretical knowledge, to ensure that young people who self-harm receive an effective, high-standard service.