Mental Health Nursing Standards

Mental health nursing standards set forth a comprehensive method for data collection, evaluation, physical assessment, treatment and measurement. They create a framework for nurses to provide health care solutions, and the process involves the patient, family members and the environment. A distinct advantage of mental health nursing standards is the ability to deliver consistent, high-quality health care services across a broad spectrum.

Purpose

• Mental health nursing standards require nurses to collect comprehensive patient medical information and personal data for health assessment. Data is collected systematically and includes information collected from the patient, family members and other health care providers. Standards ensure data collection regarding patient complaints, symptoms, history of illness, family history, substance abuse evaluation and other pertinent information. (Reference 1, Page 20).

Identification

• Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines are used to assess data and evaluate patient health. Nursing standards include comprehensive physical and mental health assessments, diagnostic testing procedures and evaluation of family relationships and social systems. Patient assessment leads to identification of issues and creation of a treatment plan based on all aspects of patient health. (Reference 1, Page 22).

Measurement

• Mental health nursing standards require measurement methodologies that allow nurses to compare normal and abnormal clinical findings and variations. Nurses access complex data and information to diagnose disorders and create a plan of care. Measurement includes evaluation of the patient's health status on quality of life and functional status, and a review of patient outcomes for research purposes. (Reference 1, Page 22-23)