Assessment is an essential part of mental-health nursing and as such a core learning requirement for pre-registration nursing students. Getting assessment right is essential for the nursing student in order for them to become an effective practitioner. Many books on assessment are very theoretical. This is a practical, hands-on guide to the assessment process, underpinned by the latest evidence. The book explains the core principles through running case studies, so that readers can see how each decision they make impacts on the person in their care.
Key features:

• Assessment principles are applied across a variety of modern nursing settings that you may find yourself working in as a registered nurse


• Each chapter is linked to the relevant NMC standards and Essential Skills Clusters so you know you are meeting the professional requirements


• Activities throughout help you to think critically and develop essential graduate skills.

Introduction
Introduction to Assessment Principles
Engaging the Person
Types of Assessment
Challenges to Assessment
Principles of Decision Making
Outcomes of Assessment
Consequences of Assessment

Sandra Walker is a Senior Teaching Fellow in Mental Health at Southampton University, where she is also a doctorate student researching the patient experience of the mental health assessment in the Emergency Department. She is a Qualified Mental Health Nurse with a wide range of clinical experience spanning more than 20 years. In addition to her university work Sandra is a professional musician and does voluntary work for various mental health organisations, including being the coordinator for the Hampshire Human Library - an international initiative aimed at reducing stigmatisation through interaction and education of the public. She is the creative director of The Sanity Company, which publishes books aimed at helping children and young people to develop good mental health and problem-solving skills.