Mental Health Nursing

Catalog description

This course addresses the role of the psychiatric mental health nurse as both provider of safe, patient-centered care and member of the health care team. Evidence-based nursing practice, including psychopharmacology and multiple treatment modalities is applied from a culturally diverse perspective to clients and families with mental health needs. The role of the nurse as therapeutic communicator, caregiver, and advocate for clients' rights is emphasized. Care of the self and self- awareness are also important components of success in this course. Specific psychiatric diagnosis are examined including but not limited to the following: anxiety disorders, substance related disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenia, organic mental disorders, somatoform disorders, eating disorders, suicidal behavior, dissociative disorders, childhood and adolescent issues, and violence abuse. The student will develop an appreciation of the struggle mental health clients' face in achieving wellness. The professional role is expanded through the development of professional skills as a nurse counselor; listening, responding, planning, intervening, and evaluating care of selected clients. Clinical experiences are in structured mental health settings. Guided clinical experiences are provided so that the student will have opportunities to deliver holistic nursing care in both hospital and community based settings. This course addresses relevant criteria of the AACN Essentials of Baccalaureate Education (see http://www.aacnnursing.org/Education- Resources/AACN-Essentials) and Elms College School of Nursing Curriculum Competencies.