Relapse in drug dependence is a common problem among patients within forensic psychiatric care. Dependence complicates the patient's ability to rehabilitate, it causes physical and mental harm and increases the risk of returning into crime. The knowledge among health care professionals, and their strategies to prevent relapses in dependence among patients in forensic psychiatric care, is very limited.

The aim of this study is to describe strategies used by the nursing staff to prevent relapses in drug dependence. The authors have conducted interviews with eight professionals working in four different wards. The interviews have been analysed using qualitative content analysis.

The results show the importance of the patient's own ability and desires should be the basis of nursing care. Specific routines and well known consequences must be used in case of relapse. The re-adaptation to society is of great importance to prevent relapse in dependence.

Most respondents however, asked for more specific strategies for dealing with dependency problems, especially regarding methods for dialogue and motivation.