Innovation
22 February, 2021
A survey explored non-pharmacological interventions as alternatives to
pro re nata (as-required) psychotropic medication in mental health settings. This article explores its results, which have been developed into a clinical aid suggesting possible interventions. This article comes with a handout for a journal club discussion
Abstract
Pro re nata (as-required) psychotropic medicines are used frequently in mental health settings; however, concerns have been raised over the safety and lack of evidence of effectiveness of this practice. A mental health trust conducted a survey exploring the non-pharmacological interventions used by nurses to support agitated service users. It used their responses to create a clinical aid that maps out suggested interventions under the themes of physical health, relaxation, distraction, environment and psychological health.
Posted: Sun 21st Feb 2021
Mental health nurses on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic share their experiences of an “extraordinary year”
Mental health nurses working on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic have shared their experiences of providing care during the most challenging year of their careers.
To mark the third annual Mental Health Nurses’ Day on Sunday, 21st February, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is celebrating the huge contribution its mental health workforce has made to the pandemic response.
Mental health nurses have continued to provide support in a range of settings throughout the pandemic, adapting the way they work to accommodate strict infection prevention measures.
MENTAL HEALTH nurses working on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic have shared their experiences of providing care during the most challenging year of their careers. To mark the third annual Mental Health Nurses’ Day on Sunday, 21st February, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is celebrating the huge contribution its mental health workforce has made to the pandemic response. Mental health nurses have continued to provide support in a range of settings throughout the pandemic, adapting the way they work to accommodate strict infection prevention measures. Among them is Kate Msimang, who has worked at Wrexham Maelor Hospital’s Heddfan Unit since 2003. She has described how the initial months of fear and stress have now given way to hope for the future, thanks to the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine.
People with borderline personality disorder may have difficulty in accessing health services
Feb 4 2021
Borderline Personality Disorder, or BPD, is the most common personality disorder in Australia, affecting up to 5% of the population at some stage, and Flinders University researchers warn more needs to be done to meet this high consumer needs.
A new study in the
Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing (Wiley) describes how people with BPD are becoming more knowledgeable about the disorder and available treatments, but may find it difficult to find evidence-based help for their symptoms.
The South Australian psychiatric researchers warn these services are constrained by stigma within health services and from health professionals, with inadequate funding for BPD treatments and general health policies leaving consumers struggling to find appropriate help.