Psychiatric nursing

Definition of Psychiatric Nursing



- Specialized area of nursing emphasizing the theories of human behaviour as its scientific aspects and purposeful use of self as an art.

Psychiatric Mental Health


This is one of the special area or field in nursing which often seems a little unfamiliar, mysterious and exciting. Before I enter in this field, I asked myself what will be my experience going to be like? What are my functions as a nurse in a psychiatric area? How will I handle my patients?

Actually, a lot of questions came up in my mind. A little bit anxious – fear of unknown….

My first day of duty in psychiatric hospital is really unforgettable.

It makes my personality develops…

understanding them and having heart for them….

strongly influences my values and beliefs….

Introduction to Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
HEALTH – state of complete physical, mental and social wellness, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. – World Health Organization (WHO).

MENTAL HEATH – is a state of emotional, psychological and social wellness evidenced by satisfying interpersonal relationships, effective behavior and coping, positive self-concept and emotional stability.

MENTAL ILLNESS – a clinically significant behavioral or psychological syndrome or pattern that occurs in an individual and that is associated with present distress or disability or with a significantly increased risk of suffering death, pain, disability or an important loss of freedom. – American Psychiatric Association (APA, 2000).

We have Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM- IV – TR) which is a taxonomy published by the APA which describes all mental disorders, outlining specific diagnostic criteria for each based on clinical experiences and research.

Lets look back the history of Psychiatric Mental Health…. Their view… their beliefs…. And the way the people give care and treatment….

HISTORY:
Ancient Times – People believed that illnesses or diseases are caused by evil or displeasure of the gods or as punishment for their sins and wrongdoing. Primitive beliefs and superstitions were strong. They believed that those people suffering from mental illness are possessed by evil or under demon’s speak. Thus, they treat them to be punished, ostracized and sometimes get burned. Some treatments were includes bloodletting, purging, flogging and starving. Priests performed exorcisms to rid evil spirits. Some were thrown to dungeons, prison, and chained.

Period Of Enlightenment (1970’s) – this is a period were moral treatment of mental illness began. There is a formulation of concept of asylum. It is a safe refuge or haven offering protection at institutions where people has been whipped, beaten or mistreated just because they are mentally ill. We give credit to the following people who made the concept of asylum…. Phillippine Pinel in France, Wiliam Tukes in Englad, Gollaher, and Dorothea Dix in US.

Period Of Scientific Study (1980’s) – This began with Sigmund Freud, Emil Kraepelin and Eugene Bleuler had their scientific studies of psychiatry, diagnosis and treatment for the mental disorders. Freud studied the mind, its disorders and their treatment as to no one had before.

Development of Psychopharmacology – psychotropic drugs were discovered and made for mentally ill.

21st Century – there is a good view of mental disorders and proper care and treatment. Still research and further studies are on going for the management of mental disorders.