General nursing interventions for the mental health client

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General Nursing Interventions for the
Mental Health Client
Forming a one-to-one relationship with the client
It will help the client to enhance communication, problem solving, and social
skills.
Coping skills and trust in relationships may be learned or enhanced.
The nurse who establishes this relationship needs to be clear about its purpose
and provide positive interaction with the client.
Establishment of a specific meeting time, expectations for interaction, and the
duration of therapy are important boundaries to establish.
Constructive Feedback
Given to the client so that the client’s self-esteem will not be compromised.
When the confrontation technique is used, the nurse needs to discuss the
discrepancies between the client’s verbalized intensions and non-verbal behavior
carefully, without appearing to be attacking the client.
Trust
Essential to establish a therapeutic relationship.
Consistency is the key.
If the nurse cannot meet with client at an appointed time, the client must be
informed at the earliest possible time.
A new meeting time is scheduled.
Direct communication is essential for the building of a therapeutic relationship.
Other factors that facilitate trust within the nurse/client relationship include:
1. Recognizing the client’s feelings.
2. Honesty
3. Respect for the client
4. Non-judgmental attitude
Emphasize Positive Results
Do not argue with the client.
Recognize that the client is experiencing pain but do not dwell on that pain.

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Assessment
Critical of their behavior at the time of admission or initial treatment.
Reassessment is indicated at appropriate intervals.
The client must also learn how to self-monitor his or her symptoms.
This communicates to the client that he or she is respected and can control his or
her symptoms.
Safety
The primary concern.
The client may require protection interventions; these must be provided in a safe
manner with respect for the client.
The milieu may need to be evaluated for safety
Environment
Provide privacy and time with decreased stimuli.
It should be a calm environment in which the client feels safe from psychological
and physical threats.
Physical needs
Intricately related to psychological function.
Ensure that the client’s nutritional, fluid, sleep, hygiene, activities of daily leaving,
and exercise needs are met.
Treatment planning
The client should encourage to participate in every planning.
Medications
Approach the confused or combative client in a calm, firm manner when
administering client.
Restrains or the assistance of another care provider may be necessary for
injections.
Ensure that the client takes medications and is not hoarding pills.
Client will need to learn about his or her medications and hot to maintain this
treatment without direct staff supervision.

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Education
Very important throughout treatment.
Discharge planning
Begins with the client is admitted, whether it is in the hospital, home care, or any
other treatment program.
The family must be involved in the process to become successful.