Mental Health Nurse Job Descriptions |
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| Mental health nurses work in both hospital
and community settings to support people with a range of mental
health issues. They work closely with clients and their families,
friends and carers to develop supportive, healing relationships.
As a mental health nurse, you would support people living with conditions such as: · anxiety · depression · stress-related illnesses · personality disorders · eating disorders · Drug and alcohol addiction. You could work with a variety of clients or specialise and work with a particular group, such as adolescents or offenders. Your work could involve: · counselling and support (either one-to-one or in groups) · using role play, art, drama and discussion as therapies · physical care, if the patient is too old or ill to look after themselves · Giving medication to patients.
Key Skills · an understanding, sympathetic and non-judgmental manner · good listening skills and the ability to gain a patient’s trust · an understanding of body language and other non-verbal communication · the ability to empathise and relate to people of all ages and backgrounds · the ability to stay calm and in control in difficult situations · a persuasive manner and the ability to encourage patients to follow treatment plans · Assertiveness and the ability to represent patients’ interests. |
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