BACKGROUND:
In Ethiopia, many attempt suicide each year. Healthcare professionals play a vital role in caring for these patients, which is crucial for suicide prevention. However, there are no studies on the experience and the challenges they face when treating suicide attempters in the country. Therefore, this study aimed to explore these experiences in central Ethiopia.

METHODS:
A qualitative, descriptive study was conducted from 20 September, 2024, to 22 November, 2024, at Butajira General Hospital using in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 9 healthcare professionals working at the emergency department, medical ward, and psychiatry clinic. Inductive thematic analysis was performed using ATLAS.ti software.

RESULTS:
We identified six themes: characteristics of suicide attempters, provider-related challenges, patient-related challenges, health facility-related challenges, lack of collaboration, and providers’ recommendations for prevention. The analysis revealed critical barriers, such as inadequate staff training, the absence of clinical psychologists, and a lack of private spaces for patient counseling and treatment. Additionally, irresponsible media reporting, patient reluctance to engage in care, and lack of awareness further hindered effective treatment.

CONCLUSIONS:
The study highlights the urgent need for intervention at different levels. Findings indicate that healthcare providers, health system, and patient-related challenges affect the quality of services for suicidal patients. Therefore, separating rooms for suicidal attempters within health facilities, providing specialized suicide intervention training to healthcare professionals, and launching community awareness campaigns are necessary to address these impediments and improve patient care. Furthermore, fostering inter-sectoral partnerships, particularly with religious leaders and media outlets, is an essential strategy to prevent future attempts, ultimately reducing the burden of suicide.