Bridging theory and practice in schizophrenia care: Nursing models and related psychiatric and psychosocial frameworks

Abstract

Background: Schizophrenia is a complex and chronic mental disorder associated with significant cognitive, emotional, and social impairments. While pharmacological and psychosocial treatments are essential, nursing models and related psychiatric and psychosocial frameworks remain underutilized in guiding comprehensive and person-centered care strategies. Purpose: This narrative review aims to synthesize psychiatric nursing models and related theoretical and clinical frameworks with potential applicability in schizophrenia care, and to highlight their value in fostering recovery-oriented and multidisciplinary approaches. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL using broad terms related to psychiatric nursing and schizophrenia. Peer-reviewed studies were included if they addressed theoretical nursing frameworks and considering their potential implementation in schizophrenia. Selected models were categorized based on their principles, strengths, and relevance to clinical practice. Findings: Key psychiatric nursing models and complementary psychological and integrative frameworks relevant to schizophrenia care were identified, including the Tidal Model, Peplau's Interpersonal Relations Theory, Orem's Self-Care Model, Roy's Adaptation Model, Trauma-Informed Care, the Biopsychosocial Model, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. These models align with the CHIME framework for personal recovery (Connectedness, Hope, Identity, Meaning, Empowerment) and support key dimensions of care such as empathy, autonomy, coping strategies, and social reintegration. Though limited, we explored empirical evidence on their direct application in schizophrenia, highlighting a need for further research and implementation efforts, through a multidisciplinary perspective. Conclusion: Existing psychiatric nursing models and related psychiatric and psychosocial frameworks offer valuable, person-centered frameworks that complement biomedical approaches in schizophrenia care. Their integration into multidisciplinary clinical practice could enhance recovery outcomes, promote patient autonomy, and humanize mental health care. This review underscores the importance of revalorizing nursing theories and psychiatric or psychosocial frameworks in the context of complex psychiatric disorders and calls for their greater inclusion in treatment planning, education, and research.