The role of the practice nurse in mental health: A survey

Abstract

The role of the practice nurse is expanding as the profession grows. Mental health is an area of potentially great importance for the practice nurse, particularly as moves are made towards a more preventive approach in primary care. A response rate of 72% (n=71) was achieved in this survey of practices nurses in two health districts. 89% said that they dealt with mental health problems, while 87% felt inadequately trained and 91% wanted more training in this field. Relationship problems were most mentioned as being associated with psychological problems. Practice nurses, along with other primary care workers, need more training in this area if the most effective service is to be provided for the primary care client.