Working with consumers

This chapter outlines interpersonal skills related to mental health nursing assessment and intervention. A particular focus is on working with consumers who are at risk of harm. The chapter is based on a perspective that values the strengths and skills of the mental health nurse and the mental health consumer, while recognising that both can have vulnerabilities (Hem & Heggen 2003). The chapter is divided into two sections. It begins with an overview of the communication skills that underpin the therapeutic nurse-consumer relationship and nurses' interactions with supporting others such as families and carers. A strengths approach to working with consumers and families and carers is outlined. Communication skills are also fundamental when the mental health nurse is working with consumers in special situations. Issues related to nurse vulnerabilities are discussed in this section, particularly in relation to use of self. The second section discusses risk. In this section the use of interpersonal skills in the management of clients at risk of self-harm, suicide, aggression and violence is addressed.Special attention is given to risk assessment. Tools to aid assessment, and subsequent nursing interventions, are included.