LAUSR

INTRODUCTION Mental health inpatient treatment is necessary and increasing in adolescents due to their mental health vulnerability. Few studies have comprehensively reviewed adolescents' hospitalization experience. AIM To gain an in-depth understanding of the mental health inpatient experience from adolescents' perspectives. METHOD Six electronic databases, manual searches, and citation searches were completed for studies published within the last 10 years. Eight articles were included and thematic analysis was used. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklist was applied to assess data quality. RESULTS Three main themes were identified: Experiences of hospitalization, Perceived outcomes, and Preparing for discharge. These themes included both positive and negative experiences. DISCUSSION The environment and interactions within the ward were critical to adolescents' nursing care. Positive relationship experiences were important for adolescents to adapt well and consequently achieve beneficial inpatient treatment results. Additionally, adolescents wanted to participate in the decision-making process related to their treatment during hospitalization. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Mental health nurses have a responsibility to be sensitive to adolescents' mental health status during hospitalization and to understand the significance of providers' support in leading them to recovery. Nurses need to establish a more stable ward environment and form positive relationships through respect for adolescents' intentions.