103.5 clock hours (weeks 8-14)

This course provides the student with the knowledge and skills to care for the client who is experiencing an alteration in mental health. The course explores the various mental disorders, associated behaviors, therapeutic interventions as well as the application of the nursing process and evidence-based practice in planning and implementing patient care. Personality dynamics, cultural diversity, behavior development and the concept that abnormal behavioral manifestations are an expression of needs are presented. The role of stress and its effect on emotional and mental balance is discussed. Clinical experience will provide the opportunity for application of the principals of care of the patient with alterations in mental health, enhancing the student’s understanding of the process of moving through the mental health-illness continuum.