Mental Health Assessment Guide(need help)

Published

Hello fellow students,

I start by psychiatric clinical rotations next week Sept 27 or 29, 2006.

I need help with the mental health assessment guide process. I have the guide as to, for example, physical appearance and behaviors,etc. It is just to get started is my problem. I need an example from someone who has already had their psych rotation.

Any help with be very much appreciated.

thanks,

NE

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in med/surg, telemetry, IV therapy, mgmt.

Are you asking, how do I approach a patient in a psych facility?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Yes, I am apprehensive of taking the first steps on assessing a patient in psych facility. Up to now I have had clinicals with nonpsych patients.

I just need some scenarios examples.

thanks,

NE

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Yes, I am just looking for some effective scenario examples in approaching a psych patient in a psych facility.How to properly break the ice, what NOT to say.etc.

thanks,

NE

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ED, ICU, MS/MT, PCU, CM, House Sup, Frontline mgr.
Yes, I am just looking for some effective scenario examples in approaching a psych patient in a psych facility.How to properly break the ice, what NOT to say.etc.

thanks,

NE

What would you say to a patient who is not in a Mental Health facility? If I were you I would introduce myself and ask if I can speak to him/her.

I'm not a student nurse yet, but I have worked in a Mental Health facility for quite some time. The best advice I can give you is to be yourself and relax.

Treat the psych patients you come in contact with the same way you treat other patients because they are human too. If you act nervous and anxious he/she will sense it and more then likely take offense. Good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in NICU/L&D, Hospice.

We were advised to just approach them like anyone at a social setting.

The old one-talk about the weather

What have you been doing today?

The important thing is to not go right into your assessment/questions. Talk to them about "nothing" at first, then go into your work (if they are receptive). You could start that off by saying "Is today a better day?" I haven't had to approach anyone yet (will on Friday), but that is the one I'll probably use when I try to learn from them.

Good luck and remember to be sincere. It's just talking.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion