Insights Towards Trauma-Informed Nursing Supervision : An Integrative Literature Review and Thematic Analysis

Trauma-informed care (TIC) is an approach to healthcare practice that recognises the pervasiveness of trauma, and the deep and life-shaping impact this has on a person. The literature recognises the negative consequences of trauma both to the people who experience it, and the nurses who provide care for them. Professional supervision is an integral element of workforce wellbeing and practice development, and a largely unexplored avenue of support for those who deliver TIC. Strategies for delivery of TIC were clearly articulated in the background literature, however how professional supervision can support nurses who provide this was less obvious.

The research aim was to explore the literature related to trauma-informed supervision in nursing to answer the question ‘what skills and strategies can a supervisor use to support nurses who provide TIC in adult populations?’. An integrative review method was used and identified fifteen published articles for inclusion. These were then analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis. Literature all came from the allied health field, due to paucity of literature related to nursing. Analysis revealed three themes that were developed into an emotion–cognition–action sequence; create a safe supervisory relationship; facilitate TIC learning; and build resilience. Discussion noted the intersection of review findings with the Supervision Alliance Model and TIC framework, and where other skills may be integrated to inform a trauma-informed supervisor.