The Role of Saudi Nurses in the Care of Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Systematic Review.
Authors: benkafo Abeer , `basri zakyah , aladah Rawan , Aloufi Nouf , aljezani eman , aljezani fardous , aljezani Fatmah , alamri sameeha 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This systematic review investigates the pivotal, yet underexplored, role of Saudi nurses in caring for patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a prevalent mental health condition that profoundly impacts individuals' daily lives and well-being. Given the rising mental health challenges in Saudi Arabia and the cultural stigma often surrounding mental health care, it is essential to better understand and strengthen the support provided by nurses—frequently the frontline caregivers in OCD treatment.
The study synthesizes existing research on the contributions of Saudi nurses to OCD care across multiple domains, including patient assessment, therapeutic interventions, and family support, which is particularly significant within the Saudi cultural context. By examining current practices and the challenges nurses face, such as limited mental health training, lack of institutional resources, and cultural barriers to open discussions of mental health, this review reveals structural limitations that impact the effectiveness of nursing care. At the same time, the analysis highlights the resilience and adaptability of Saudi nurses, who frequently operate with limited specialized resources and navigate considerable obstacles in their work.
The findings underscore an urgent need for a culturally informed approach to OCD care that combines enhanced mental health training specific to OCD with strengthened institutional support to address the unique challenges faced by Saudi nurses. This review calls on healthcare policymakers to prioritize mental health within the Saudi healthcare system and advocates for developing comprehensive mental health nursing frameworks that integrate cultural sensitivity with clinical expertise.
By providing a nuanced understanding of Saudi nurses' roles in OCD care, this study illuminates the specific barriers they face and suggests pathways to improve mental health care quality across Saudi Arabia. Ultimately, it establishes a foundation for future research aimed at transforming mental health nursing practices to better meet the complex needs of OCD patients in ways that are both culturally respectful and clinically effective.
Key Findings and Implications for Practice and Policy

Enhanced Training and
Education: Addressing the
identified gaps requires implementing
comprehensive training programs
focused on mental health disorders,
with a particular emphasis on OCD.
Specialized training can empower
nurses to provide more effective and
culturally sensitive care that meets
the specific needs of OCD patients
within Saudi Arabia.
Structural and Policy
Support: For meaningful
improvement, healthcare policymakers
in Saudi Arabia must prioritize
mental health by establishing
policies that strengthen the role of mental
health nurses. Recommended policies
include developing standardized
protocols for OCD care, increasing
funding for mental health resources,
and formally recognizing the unique
challenges faced by mental health
nurses, particularly those working in
culturally sensitive settings.
Culturally Adapted Care
Models: The findings
underscore the importance of
culturally adapted care models that
incorporate family involvement in
ways that align with Saudi cultural
values while also educating families
about OCD. Such culturally sensitive
interventions could improve patient
outcomes, reduce stigma, and support
nurses in delivering more effective
care.
Future Research Needs: The review highlights
the need for further research into
culturally specific approaches to mental health
care. Studies that capture the
perspectives of Saudi nurses, patients, and
families could reveal additional
strategies to reduce stigma and improve
care accessibility, contributing to a
more resilient and responsive mental
health care system.

Conclusion
This review highlights the essential role of Saudi nurses in OCD care and offers practical and policy-oriented recommendations to strengthen mental health care delivery across Saudi Arabia. By addressing the educational, structural, and cultural needs within nursing practice, Saudi healthcare leaders can advance the quality and accessibility of mental health care, ensuring improved support for OCD patients and the nurses who care for them.