Apply the nursing process to provide care for the client with a mental health disorder.

Application of the nursing process should include

  • recognition of the clinical judgment model components
  • assessment
  • mental status
  • diagnostic procedures
  • plan of care
  • therapeutic communications.

Process/Skill Questions:

  • What is the purpose of a psychiatric/mental health assessment?
  • What lab tests provide significant indicators of health or disorders in the client with a mental health disorder?
  • How would a nurse write a plan of care, including safety; nutrition; medication administration; identification of changes in social, cultural, and psychological patterns; and nursing interventions?
  • How would one promote self-care and independent functioning for the client with a mental health disorder?
  • How would one use therapeutic communications to interact with the client and family?