Course Title: Deliver nursing care to consumers with mental health conditions

National Element Code & Title:

HLTEN410A Deliver nursing care to consumers with mental health conditions

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Explain the concept of mental illness
1.2 Apply an understanding of the history, social, political and economic context of mental health in Australia
1.3 Support the rights of the consumer with mental health conditions
1. 4 Apply and understanding of national and State/Territory mental health policies and strategies
1.5 Work in a manner that reflects an understanding of the underpinning values and philosophies of mental health care and is consistent with legal obligations

2.1 Identify conditions relating to the mental state and behaviour of consumers using broad classifications of mental illness and terms commonly associated with mental conditions
2.2 Recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders and respond within the role of an enrolled nurse
2.3 Recognise bio-psychosocial effects of mental health disorders
2.4 Recognise stereotyping and stigma associated with mental illness and practice in a manner which minimises the effects of negative behaviours and discrimination
2.5 Recognise the impact of stigma and discrimination on consumers with mental health conditions, and reflect on own attitudes and values
2.6 Apply feedback from consumers and carers in adjusting own practice

3.1 Participate as a member of the health care team in the treatment of consumers with mental health conditions within the role of enrolled nurse
3.2 Gather, record and document data according to health care environment policy
3.3 Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings
3.4 Observe signs and symptoms of changing behaviours and report to registered nurse
3.5 Participate as a member of the health care team to plan the treatment of consumers with mental health conditions within the role of enrolled nurse
3.6 Demonstrate understanding of the consumer’s right to contribute to their own care planning


4.1 Implement nursing interventions of a mental health consumer
4.2 Plan, prioritise and implement nursing interventions for a mental health consumer based on the individual care plan in conjunction with treating team
4.3 Reflect the individuality and needs of each consumer when undertaking nursing interventions to assist the consumer to meet their holistic needs
4.4 Document behaviour patterns or characteristics in the client’s care plan
4.5 Work in a manner that aims to provide respect and dignity to consumers
4.6 Assist the consumer and significant others to participate in therapeutic nursing interventions
4.7 Perform nursing interventions in accordance with professional, legal and organisation requirements reflecting non-discriminatory practice as delegated by registered nurse
4.8 Recognise emergency situations, act upon, document and
report according to organisation policy and procedures
5.1 Document consumer response to nursing interventions and report to the registered nurse or other appropriate mental health care team member
5.2 Comply with the legal responsibilities and duty of care in all nursing interventions
5.3 Apply ethical and moral concepts to all clinical interventions
6.1 Identify triggers of problem behaviours and within the scope of enrolled nursing practice, initiate prevention strategies
6.2 Maintain safety of self and others

Crisp, J and Taylor, C. 2005. Potter & Perry’s Fundamentals of Nursing. 2nd Ed. Elsevier.

Elder, R. Evans, K., Nizette D. 2005. Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. Elsevier- Mosby
Gaylord . C., 2007. Mental Health Nursing. 2nd Ed. Pearson /Prentice Hall.
Williams & Wilkins.2007. Basic Concepts of Psychiatric Mental Health. 7th Lippincott.