Describe characteristics of psychiatric and mental health concerns specific to forensic populations, addressing implications for nursing care.

QUESTION

Case Study, Mohr

CHAPTER 21, Forensic Psychiatric Nursing

In completing the case study, students will be addressing the following learning objectives:

Describe the nurse’s role in the forensic milieu.

Describe characteristics of psychiatric and mental health concerns specific to forensic populations, addressing implications for nursing care.

1. Two student nurses are assigned to the forensic unit for their psychiatric learning experiences. They are both slightly apprehensive but want to learn from the nursing staff the role of the nurse in forensic psychiatric nursing.

(Learning Objectives: 1, 2)

a. What will the nurse manager tell the students about the role of the nurse in forensic psychiatric nursing?

b. In addition, what do the student nurses know about the difference between the traditional mental health setting and the forensic milieu?

ANSWER

The Role of Nurses in Forensic Psychiatric Nursing: Addressing the Differences in the Forensic Milieu

Introduction

Forensic psychiatric nursing is a specialized field that involves the care and treatment of individuals with psychiatric and mental health concerns who are involved in the legal and criminal justice system. In this essay, we will explore the role of nurses in forensic psychiatric nursing and the distinctions between the traditional mental health setting and the forensic milieu.

Role of the Nurse in Forensic Psychiatric Nursing

The nurse’s role in forensic psychiatric nursing is multifaceted and encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. The nurse acts as an advocate, providing support and guidance to individuals who may be facing legal challenges or navigating the criminal justice system (Hammarström et al., 2019). They are responsible for the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients, working in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

In the forensic milieu, nurses play a crucial role in maintaining safety and security. They are trained to manage potentially volatile situations and ensure the well-being of both patients and staff. They implement crisis intervention techniques, de-escalation strategies, and risk assessments to prevent harm and maintain a therapeutic environment (Goodman et al., 2020). Additionally, forensic psychiatric nurses provide education and support to patients, helping them develop coping skills and improve their overall mental health.

Differences between the Traditional Mental Health Setting and the Forensic Milieu

While there are similarities between the traditional mental health setting and the forensic milieu, there are also significant differences that impact the nursing care provided.

Legal and Ethical Considerations: In forensic psychiatric nursing, nurses must navigate complex legal and ethical considerations. They are required to adhere to confidentiality and privacy regulations while also complying with court orders and providing necessary information to legal authorities. Nurses may be called upon to provide expert testimony in legal proceedings, requiring them to have a thorough understanding of the legal system and forensic processes.

Security and Safety: Unlike the traditional mental health setting, the forensic milieu is characterized by heightened security measures. Nurses working in forensic settings must be trained to manage potentially violent or aggressive behaviors. They collaborate closely with security personnel and follow specific protocols to ensure the safety of all individuals in the facility.

Collaborative Approach: Forensic psychiatric nurses work closely with a multidisciplinary team that includes psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, lawyers, and correctional staff. Collaboration and effective communication are essential for providing comprehensive care to individuals in the forensic milieu (Jacobs & Mkhize, 2021). Nurses participate in case conferences, treatment planning, and risk assessment meetings to develop individualized care plans that address both mental health concerns and legal considerations.

Conclusion

The role of nurses in forensic psychiatric nursing is critical in providing care to individuals with psychiatric and mental health concerns within the legal and criminal justice system. They assume diverse responsibilities, including assessment, treatment, crisis management, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. Understanding the differences between the traditional mental health setting and the forensic milieu allows nurses to deliver effective and appropriate care while navigating complex legal and security considerations. By fulfilling their roles with expertise and compassion, forensic psychiatric nurses contribute to the overall well-being and rehabilitation of individuals in this unique population.

References

Goodman, H. M., Brooks, C. P., Price, O., & Barley, E. (2020). Barriers and facilitators to the effective de-escalation of conflict behaviours in forensic high-secure settings: a qualitative study. International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13033-020-00392-5 

Hammarström, L., Häggström, M., Devik, S. A., & Hellzén, O. (2019). Controlling emotions—nurses’ lived experiences caring for patients in forensic psychiatry. International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being, 14(1), 1682911. https://doi.org/10.1080/17482631.2019.1682911 

Jacobs, E., & Mkhize, S. W. (2021). Multidisciplinary team members’ perceptions regarding advanced psychiatric nurses’ attitudes on mental healthcare. Health Sa Gesondheid, 26. https://doi.org/10.4102/hsag.v26i0.1646