Module 1.2 : Essentials For MH Practice (role of the Nurse)

Question 1

Describe the role of the nurse for providing optimal consumer care & treatment for people with mental illness

Answer 1

Use of personal-centred care to work with the consumer to meet their recovery goals.
The nurse considers the person’s physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs.
Holistic approach that works in unison with the patient’s family, support system and the broader community.

Question 2

List and describe the general working principles/ ‘nursing essentials’ to achieve positive patient outcomes

Answer 2

• person-centred approach : need for flexibility, confidentiality vs duty of care, rapport building
• working alliance: empowerment,
• compassionate care : empathy vs sympathy,
• respect : honesty, genuineness,
• safe environment : access to care,
• multidisciplinary team

Question 3

Explain the concept of ‘caring’ and the impact potential of people living with mental illness

Answer 3

Concept of caring - combines both attitudes with action in the nurses commitment to maintaining a person’s dignity & integrity.

Impact potential- facilitates: clear communication, emotional intelligence, empathy & trust, cultural sensitivity, and promotes consumer autonomy

Question 4

Define stigma & describe how the ‘stigma of mental illness ‘ can affect individuals, family, society and health-care services

Answer 4

Stigma is a mark of disgrace that sets a person apart from others.

Stigma is more than just a negative connotation, it invokes rejection, stereotyping and discrimination.

Individuals & family - feelings of shame, blame, hopelessness, isolation. Discrimination in the workplace and within society as a whole.

Lack of disclosure leads to secrecy and limitations of support.

Professionals- psychiatric treatment often viewed with suspicion and abnormal.

MI is often misrepresented in the media

Question 5

How can nurses contribute to reducing discrimination and stigma against people with mental illness?

Answer 5

• awareness
• education
• inclusivity
• community perceptions
• community attitudes
• media misrepresentation
• attitudes of health professionals

Question 6

Identify nursing communication skills that will enhance consumer outcomes.

Answer 6

1) non-verbal : includes making eye contact and controlling tone of voice.
2) Active listening: listen to understand;not solely to respond.
3) personal relationships: show compassion, kindness whilst obtaining and providing information.
4) inspire trust: always keep your word. Be ‘present ‘. Take the patient’s complaints and concerns seriously.
5) show compassion: treat patients with respect and dignity, convey empathy.
6) cultural awareness: every patient is unique.
7) educating patients: break down medical jargon, collaborative education and engaging. Explain processes, medications, self-care techniques.
8) written: documentation to be precise and clear. Essential for team communication.
9) verbal: always consider your audience. Speak clearly.