Product Description

This second edition provides a comprehensive overview of the practice of psychiatric and mental health nursing, supported by relevant theory, research, policy and philosophy.

The book is underpinned by the concept of "the craft of caring", where the basis of good nursing practice is considered to be a combination of both art and science, and which encourages nurses to take a holistic approach to the practice of psychiatric and mental health nursing.

Chapters have been completely updated to reflect recent developments in nursing practice and the understanding of mental health disorders. Twelve new chapters have been added, giving more emphasis to certain groups such as children and young people, women, older people, asylum seekers and refugees. Additional coverage of specialist services, such as psychiatric liaison and spiritual care, has been included, and further emphasis is given to psychiatric diagnosis and mental health legislation in relation to human rights.

This is an essential text for all psychiatric and mental health nurses at diploma and degree level, as well as qualified mental health nurses seeking to update their knowledge. It will also be a useful reference for other disciplines such as social work, medicine and psychology.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #44261 in Books
• Published on: 2008-12-26
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 760 pages

About the Author
Phil Barker PhD RN FRCN, was the UK's first Professor of Psychiatric Nursing Practice, at the University of Newcastle, UK. He is presently Honorary Professor, University of Dundee, Scotland and a psychotherapist in private practice.

Customer Reviews

A breath of fresh air
I would recommended this book as a comprehensive and powerful look at how nurses can help people with a large variety of problems relating to their mental health. By examining these problems from the perspective of nursing as a 'craft' it gives a more holistic perspective to bring out the person behind the problem. This is certainly in contast to many other nursing textbooks that focus primarily on the biopsychosocial model.

As a mental health nurse/ nursing student, it may not be the only textbook you buy, but I would certainly advise it be one of them.

BARKER AT HIS BEST
I always hesitate to look at a new Barker book in the shops, as I am inevitably drawn to purchase. This was one of those fateful journeys.

Since then I have used the book to prepare lectures, to inspire students and to show service users some of the advances coming in mental health care.

Welcome distraction from the medical model
I found that this book was informative and interesting. Having just completed my nursing training I was inspired by this book and its alternative slant on the world of psychiatry. I also felt that it was clearly written and would make an a wonderful addition to any reading list!