NUR-402 Mental Health Nursing

"The focus of this course is the development of the therapeutic nurse-client relationship in health and illness. Mental health concepts are stresssed as students are guided to develop the therapeutic use of self through heightened self-awareness and the use of advanced communication skills. Psychiatric medical diagnoses such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance abuse disorder are studied, as are the appropriate therapeutic nursing interventions appropriate for use with clients experiencing these conditions. Special emphasis is given to the use of critical thinking skills in clinical decision-making as well as to the application of relevant research findings. Clinical work takes place in a variety of mental health settings both in the hospital and elsewhere in the community.(Offered every fall semester.)"