ATTRIBUTIONS AND CHALLENGES OF NURSES IN PSYCHOSOCIAL CARE CENTERS (CAPS I): IMPACTS ON THE CARE OF USERS WITH BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER

Abstract

Nursing plays a significant role in mental health care, especially within Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS), which are essential services of the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS) dedicated to providing comprehensive and community-based care to individuals experiencing psychological distress. In this context, the role of nurses in the care of individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) stands out, as this condition is characterized by emotional instability, impulsivity, interpersonal relationship difficulties, and a high risk of self-harm. This study aimed to examine how the roles and challenges faced by nurses in CAPS I influence the quality of care provided to users with Borderline Personality Disorder. This is a descriptive bibliographic review with a qualitative approach, conducted through searches in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), including the LILACS, MEDLINE, and BDENF databases, as well as Google Scholar. Articles published between 2020 and 2025 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, available in full text and addressing nursing practice in mental health, CAPS, and Borderline Personality Disorder, were included. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 25 studies were selected for the final sample. Data were analyzed using Bardin’s Content Analysis, which enabled the development of three thematic categories: nurses’ roles in CAPS I; challenges faced by nursing professionals in psychosocial care; and strategies to improve care for users with BPD. The findings revealed that nurses perform essential functions related to patient reception, therapeutic listening, the development of the Individual Therapeutic Project, health education, and care network articulation. However, challenges such as work overload, structural limitations, lack of resources, difficulties in care network integration, and the need for continuous professional training were identified. It is concluded that nursing is essential for providing comprehensive and humanized care to individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder. Strengthening public policies, investing in professional education, and improving working conditions are crucial to ensuring high-quality mental health care services.