Mental Health Nursing

This course focuses on mental health, as well as the basic psychopathology of mental disorders of individuals and families throughout the lifecycle who are experiencing varying states of mental health. The environmental influences affecting the mental health of the individual are examined within the context of the family and/or community. The nurse/patient relationship is emphasised as the foundation for therapeutic communication and nursing interventions. Collaboration with other health team members and/or community resources is explored as a way to address the needs of the individual and family using various treatment modalities. Students are expected to apply the knowledge gained to patient situations in the clinical settings during the Mental Health Nursing Clinical Practicum course.