Abstract
Background: Individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) struggle with
relationships because of impulsivity and emotional regulation difficulties. Specialised skills
are needed for care, but existing models are lacking. A new model was developed to help
psychiatric nurses support couples with one partner having BPD. This innovative psychiatric
nursing model emphasises the need for implementation and evaluation in care.
Aim: To explore the psychiatric nurses’ experiences of implementation of a model to facilitate
constructive intra- and interpersonal relationships for couples in a relationship where one is
living with BPD.
Setting: The study was conducted at a mental health institution in Gauteng province where
the one partner with BPD receives treatment.
Methods: The study adopted a qualitative, exploratory design conducting in-depth interviews
with psychiatric nurses who implemented the model, triangulated with observations and
field notes and analysed thematically.
Results: Four themes emerged, namely: (1) the model served as a helpful tool for
empowerment; (2) the positive results yielded by the model; (3) challenges related to using
the model; and (4) suggestions for expanding the model’s reach. The psychiatric nurses
found the model acceptable and feasible to facilitate the relationships of couples where one
is living with BPD.
Conclusion: Psychiatric nurses need guidelines to enhance care for individuals with BPD,
highlighting the importance of implementing supportive models to improve relationships in
various settings.
Contribution: Implementation of this model is unique in the care of persons living with BPD
making it a valuable tool for psychiatric nurses in mental health care provision.