Objective:
This study aimed to identify the theoretical references that guide clinical practice in mental health nursing.
Methods:
Descriptive study of qualitative approach, conducted through semi-structured interviews. The study subjects were nurses working in Psychosocial Care Centers of Fortaleza/CE. It was used the analysis of content of Bardin.
Results:
Five categories emerged that link the theoretical references that guide the clinical practice of nurses: nursing theories referential, biomedical referential; alternative practices referential; referential of harm-reduction policy, and psychoanalysis reference.
Conclusion:
It was identified that the professional practice of the most of the respondents was guided by more than one of these references, although some present contradictions between them, and this was not perceived by the subjects. These references, at times, were applied only formally, without the purpose of reception of the subject in psychological distress and their care demands.
Nursing Care; Mental Health; Professional Practice