Clinical placements
Isolation and COVID-19: what I learned from my placement at a mental health hub
A nursing student saw first-hand the need for early interventions in mental healthcare
Patient confidentiality: how a complicated case created an ethical and legal dilemma
A service user’s chlamydia diagnosis taught me lessons about disclosure and breach of trust
On the front line with a paramedic
A day spent shadowing a paramedic showed the complex range of skills this role requires, and the emotional side of the work
What to do when words fail
Communication problems are not uncommon when people with complex needs are admitted to hospital, and one nursing student is creating a toolkit that will include tips from specialists and signposting to additional support
Going outside your comfort zone can help connect with patients
By learning more about football, mental health nursing student Felicity Allman was able to build up a therapeutic relationship with a patient with paranoid schizophrenia.
Mental health nurses need training to treat physical ailments
Physical and mental health are linked, and giving mental health nurses more training would enable them to manage the physical health of patients better, says third-year nursing student Amy Baker.
Don't judge patients with personality disorders
When mental health nursing student Nicola Mattocks heard staff making derogatory comments about patients with borderline personality disorder she used her personal experience of the condition to help educate staff and improve patient care.
A fresh take on medicines management for patients with a learning disability
Mental health nursing student Kirsty Killiard implemented a system for monitoring the use of ‘as required’ medication for patients on a forensic learning disability ward, earning her a place as a finalist in the RCNi Nurse Awards.
Stand up to the stigma of mental illness
Working with an inspirational community mental health nurse gave nursing student Robyn Ambrose the confidence to challenge those who express negative views about mental illness.
Never underestimate the importance of engaging with patients
During an elective placement in the Philippines, nursing student Cara Sturgess witnessed some great examples of compassionate care, delivered by dedicated nursing staff, despite high levels of poverty and deprivation.
Stop, look and listen to your patients
A placement taught nursing student Sara Mulligan the importance of addressing the physical health needs of mental health patients
Every voice should be valued
Escalating concerns after witnessing substandard nursing care made Robert McEntee determined to uphold his own values and take any criticism on board.