TEAM WORKING

Mental Health Nurse and Social Worker



Table of Contents

First patch3

Theme: Professional Understanding (linked to LO1-2)3

Second Patch: Theme: Team Working (linked to LO1-3).6

Third Patch: synthesis (linked to LO 2-3).8

Final patch8

Mental Health Nurse and Social Worker

Introduction

I am a second year student on the Inter-professional Learning (IPL) programme under mental health pathway. I am currently working in an acute ward . The assignment is divided into three patches. The three are 'stand alone' pieces of work and the last patch will critically analyse the patches, drawing out common themes in them and relating the assignment as a whole to collaborative practice. The patchwork is based on my action learning sets, and the experiences I had in practice. Confidentiality and anonymity of health and social care services, patients and practitioners involved will be maintained as per (NMC) Nursing and Midwifery Council (2004) guidelines.

First patch

Theme: Professional Understanding (linked to LO1-2)

Mental health nursing is a growing field and has many opportunities for nurses. The stigma of seeking medical attention for mental health disorders is lowering, so there is more of a demand for mental health professionals than ever before. Mental health nursing can be personally fulfilling as well as financially rewarding. Nurses get to see patients doing better as a direct result of their care, which can lead to increased job satisfaction (Bell, 2002, 14-49).

The field of mental health nursing involves caring for patients of any age suffering from mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, major depression, schizophrenia and dementia. Mental health nurses don't just give pills; they have to assist patients with carrying on normal daily activities such as bathing, recreational activities, listening to patients' concerns, eating and spiritual care. Mental health nurses are just as interested in eliminating suffering as nurses in other health fields. They also act as patient advocates; acting as mediators between patients, physicians and families. If you work in this nursing career, you may even counsel patients by phone or in person (Bell, 2002, 14-49).

On the other hand Social workers help people with a wide range of issues, including psychological, financial, health, relationship and substance abuse problems. Learn more about what social workers do, the educational requirements to become a social worker and the projected job outlook for the field (Bell, 2002, 14-49).

The field of social work utilizes social theories to understand the human problems, to help improve people's lives and to improve society as a whole. Many social workers specialize in particular areas, such as helping children, assisting those life-threatening problems or aiding people in overcoming addictions.

Social workers:

Act as advocates for their clients

Educate clients and teach them new skills

Link clients to essential resources within the community

Protect vulnerable clients and ensure that their best interests are observed.

Counsel clients who need support and assistance

Research social problems to look for remedies

While looking at the profession of mental health nurse we find that here are two levels of advanced practice for mental health nursing: Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners ...