Student approaches: supporting students in A&E settings

Nurses working in accident and emergency (A&E) departments near to Higher Education Institutions will be familiar with students attending as the result of sports injuries, and as the consequence of a range of accidents stemming from over-enthusiastic socializing. However, a number of students arrive at A&E departments in distress as the result of mental health problems. This article reports the findings of a small research project exploring mechanisms and support systems for assisting students with mental health needs. It briefly outlines the research and its findings and then considers three relevant issues for those working in A&E: student profiles, student support and the position of students who are considering or engaged in professional education. The article ends with a brief discussion of the position of students undertaking placements within A&E departments.