NUR2104

Nursing practice 4: Psychiatric and mental health nursing

9 points * 5 hours per week (lectures, tutorials, labs) plus 150 hours clinical * First or Second semester * Gippsland and Peninsula * Prerequisites: NUR1401, NUR1402

Objectives On completion of the subject it is expected that students will be able to analyse the factors which prevent and contribute to mental health/mental illness across the lifespan; formulate psychiatric nursing diagnoses and plan, implement and evaluate nursing care for clients with common psychiatric disorders; gain insight into psychotherapeutic interventions which assist clients to regain or improve their previous coping abilities and prevent further disability; develop an awareness of the health of individuals within family units and the need to include the family unit in the promotion and maintenance of mental health; develop an understanding of mental health as an integral part of the total care of clients; develop knowledge of legal and ethical issues which pertain to psychiatric mental health nursing; demonstrate safe clinical practice based on sound theoretical knowledge.

Synopsis This subject will provide an opportunity for students to develop fundamental knowledge, skills and attitudes relevant to the restoration and maintenance of optimal mental health and recovery from mental illness. Students are expected to learn to assess mental health problems and to identify the coping abilities of individuals and families, and to care for people with psychiatric problems.

Assessment Written assignment: 50% * Formal examination: 50% * Clinical Assessment: pass/fail * 100% attendance at clinical placement is compulsory * Students must pass both the theoretical and the clinical components in order to pass this subject.