The Mental Health Nurse Views of Practice and Education

Who and what are mental-health nurses now, and what might they become? In this book a number of prominent nurse educators and practitioners answer these questions. Each contributor presents a different version of the mental health nurse, thereby stimulating students, teachers and practitioners to read and think more widely about mental-health nursing. The Mental Health Nurse invites those contemplating a career in mental-health nursing to imagine shaping the future. For those established in this specialty, the book's dialogues help them reflect on their concepts of this nursing field. Written by a team of experienced practitioners in mental health, the chapters draw directly on personal experiences and research to highlight current problematic issues, and help readers to view long-established topics--including the role of the mental health nurse--in a new light. The book's premise is that because there is no clear consensus on this role, differing versions may be not only appropriate but desirable. Finally, the depth and range of experience of the contributors will also appeal to teachers of social sciences interested in current health care and professionalisation issues.

Stephen Tilley is a Senior Lecturer in Nursing Studies at the University of Edinburgh.