Development of psychiatric nursing in Türkiye: Experience of creating a memory

INTRODUCTION: The primary aim of this article is to share the outcomes of the project titled “Historical Development of Psychiatric Nursing in Türkiye: A Documentary Film Project”, executed between 2018 and 2021, and the experiences encountered throughout its duration.
METHODS: The significance of understanding the historical development of a profession immensely benefits its members and the profession as a whole. Prevailing knowledge about nursing primarily revolves around events tailored for educational entities aimed at achieving professional recognition. Recognizing the necessity, this project sought to capture firsthand accounts detailing the evolution of psychiatric nursing in Türkiye. For this project, the progression of psychiatric nursing was detailed through participants' experiences. The participants were chosen using the purpose sampling method, culminating in a cohort of 25 academic psychiatric nurses. Data collection methods included face-to-face interviews and online video recordings.
RESULTS: The obtained recordings were meticulously analyzed by the research team and subsequently utilized in various mediums, including a documentary film, a booklet, an article, and presentations. These products provide viewers and readers with a direct glimpse into the foundational values, philosophies, principles, and practices introduced by the trailblazers of psychiatric nursing in Türkiye.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: It is emphasized that similar research endeavors be undertaken across different nursing domains. Such studies stand to significantly bolster the professional identity of nurses and aid in preserving their legacy.