The term mental health encompasses a great deal about a single person, including how we feel, how we behave, and how well we function. This single aspect of our person cannot be measured or easily reported but it is possible to obtain a global picture by collecting subjective and objective information to delve into a person’s true mental health and well being. When identifying mental health wellness and planning interventions, here are a few things to keep in mind when completing a thorough mental health assessment in the nursing profession:
- Is the patient sleeping adequate hours on a regular sleeping cycle?
- Does the patient have a lack of interest in communication with other people?
- Is the patient eating and maintaining an adequate nutritional status?
- Is the ability to perform activities of daily living present (bathing, dressing, toileting one self)?
- Can the patient contribute to society and maintain employment?
- Is the ability to reason present?
- Is safety a recurring issue?
- Does the patient often make decisions without regards to their own safety or the safety of others?
- Does the patient show a difficulty with memory or recognizance?