A public school-based referral system for psychiatric mental health nursing experiences

Numerous advantages are anticipated with the implementation of the school-based referral system as a method of providing outpatient clinical experiences for a group of Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing students. The school setting, when used as a clinical site, can provide valuable learning experiences where the student can apply the nursing process with individuals, families and groups. This multi-dimensional involvement reinforces family systems theory as well as group concepts. The nature of the students' experiences through the school-based referral system gives them the opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding of the three levels of prevention: primary, secondary, and tertiary. The referrals generally constitute secondary intervention, with early recognition/intervention being the focus. Students are also encouraged to assess for factors that would place a child at risk for the development of other problems. With the identification of such factors, primary intervention strategies can be structured and implemented to reduce the child's risk. In some cases, students are involved in tertiary prevention, with a rehabilitative approach employed to assist individuals/families cope with a long-term problem situation. This expanded clinical experience facilitates the application of leadership concepts and reinforces the collaborative role of the nurse in the multidisciplinary provision of client services. Since the Psychiatric/Mental Health component of the curriculum is in the senior year, involvement in such a clinical experience also provides the students with a positive stimulus for the assumption of their professional roles and an opportunity to synthesize all previous learning.