Is training in solution-focused working useful to community matrons?

Abstract

This article evaluates the usefulness of a small initiative to train community matrons (CMs) in solution-focused (SF) approaches, from the perspective of the CMs. A SF approach is a psychologically sophisticated, yet relatively easy-to-use psychological model for enhancing care and wellbeing which can help to empower patients and promote self-care. Data from questionnaires completed by CMs immediately post training and from qualitative interviews conducted 12 months later suggest that training in SF approaches is considered useful, useable and relevant by the nurses themselves. More specifically, CMs reported that SF approaches allowed them to work alongside patients to investigate and amplify patients' own expertise in 'living well' despite their difficulties, contributing to improved patient self-management, less reliance on the CM, and greater job satisfaction for the CM. SF approaches seem to resonate with the current NHS drive for greater efficiency and better patient-centred care.