| Learning Objective #1: Describe specific therapeutic nursing interventions utilized by Psychiatric Community Health Nurses, in assisting clients with chronic mental illness. | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Describe patient identified outcomes associated with PCHN interventions and identify the gap in health insurance re-imbursement for such interventions. |
This ethnographic research study identifies and describes therapeutic interventions utilized in practice by Psychiatric Community Health Nurses (PCHNs). The influence of specific therapeutic interventions in working successfully with persons experiencing chronic and persistent mental illness is articulated. Evidence based qualitative findings document behaviors and outcomes observed and reported at the point of service. Particular needs and specific characteristics of this vulnerable population are clarified, including evidence of the issue of non-parity between re-imbursement for psychiatric versus medically related home nursing services. The influences of an ethic of care and practice based issues are identified. This researcher employed the data collection methods of participant observation, interviews, and analysis of agency documents. Data was collected systematically, indexed, and analyzed concurrently. Emerging questions directed further data collection and analysis. Participants included nine PCHNs, as well as numerous nursing staff administrators and coordinators. They were observed, accompanied and interviewed in the care agency and on home visits over a period of one year. Findings include the identification of specific nursing behaviors utilized in the therapeutic relationship and integrated with aspects of the PCHN role. Consideration of the impact of these nursing behaviors on patient self-esteem, socialization, and capacity for autonomy is discussed. PCHN’s are recognized as an excellent potential key provider of such integrated services to this population, which includes those with serious and persistent mental illness The unique combinations of psychiatric and medical diagnoses requiring individualized treatment plans that are found in this population, are described. Implications for the provision of high quality ongoing PCHN services are explored.
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See more of The 17th International Nursing Research Congress Focusing on Evidence-Based Practice (19-22 July 2006)