Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan KH, Tam CY, Wong KY, BY Chan, Leung SH, Poon TK, Li WSV, Li YC
Affiliation :
Family Medicine and General Out-patient Clinic, Kowloon Central Cluster
Introduction :
Introduction:
Mental health is an area of the healthcare system that is receiving increasing attention each day due to its significant impact on individuals, families, and communities. According to a mental health report review in 2017, 61% of Hong Kong adults currently experience poor mental well-being, with one in every seven people developing a common mental disorder in their life time. Nurses as an essential part of primary healthcare (PHC) settings, play a crucial role in the management of common mental health problems. They often serve as the first point of contact for individuals seeking help and support. However, the majority of nurses working in PHC settings have limited experience handling patients with common mental health problems. The finding of McInnes S et al (2022) and together with the global increase in mental illness in communities due to the COVID-19 pandemic, highlight the need for PHC nurses to identify their mental health learning needs and engage in education to prepare them to meet rising service demands
Objectives :
1. Enhance mental health services in PHC
2. Empower general nurses manage patient with common mental health problem
Methodology :
Methodology:
1. Classroom training
Mental health content was included the Post Registration Certificate Course in Primary Health Care Nursing, Nurses working in PHC settings are required to undergo this training to equip and advance their practise. Additional the Institute of Mental Health, Castle Peak Hospital provided It is a 13.5-hour training course namely the Certificate Course in Mental Health. This course provides comprehensive lectures on the knowledge and skills necessary to effective manage patient with common mental illness.
2. Coaching
One-to-one coaching by experience psychiatric nurse through nurse session in Integrated Mental Health Program (IMHP). Sit-in the nurse sessions for observation of at least 20 cases with discussion. Then direct supervision in management for at least 20 real cases
3. Case Studies:
Real-life cases to understand the manifestations of mental health issues and develop appropriate care plans. For difficult or complicated cases, consultation with psychiatrist consultants form Kowloon Hospital is available through via bi-month liaison meeting.
4. Collaborative Learning:
Nurses are encouraged to engage in discussion and share knowledge and experience to learn from each other's best practices in mental health care
Result & Outcome :
Conclusion:
6 general nurse have been trained to provide assessment, intervention, education, and coordination of care in IMHP. The integration of mental health services into primary health care is essential to address the growing burden of mental health problems in the populations. By recognizing the potential of general nurses and addressing the challenges they face, we can ensure that individuals with common mental health problems receive the comprehensive care they deserve. Through an integrated approach, we can promote mental well-being and contribute to healthier communities.
Discussion :
While the integration of mental health services into primary health care settings offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges. Limited resources, stigma, and inadequate training are some of the barriers that need to be addressed. However, these challenges also provide opportunities for growth and improvement. By investing in the training programs, raising awareness, and strengthening collaboration between healthcare providers, we can enhance the capacity of general nurses to manage common mental health problems effectively in PHC setting.
Reference :
Food and health Bureau, HKSAR, Mental Health Review Report, 2017,
McInnes S, Halcomb E, Ashley C, Kean A, Moxham L, Patterson C. An integrative review of primary health care nurses' mental health knowledge gaps and learning needs. Collegian. 2022 Aug;29(4):540-548. doi: 10.1016/j.colegn.2021.12.005. Epub 2022 Jan 14. PMID: 35043041; PMCID: PMC8758997.
