An exploration of providing mental health skills in a generic advanced clinical practice programme

Chadwick, AL; Murphy, N

Abstract

Background: advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) are expected to be competent in their holistic assessment and management of individuals, which includes those with both physical and mental health problems. A mental health component was introduced within a generic advanced practitioner programme to support the development of mental health skills required by advanced clinical practitioners in training (ACPiTs). Aims: this research investigated the efficacy of content specific to mental health within an MSc ACP generic programme. Methods: a single case study approach was adopted, which used a purposive sample of 10 ACPiTs to explore
personal beliefs and experiences using semistructured interviews. Verbatim transcription was undertaken followed by content and thematic analysis.
Findings: Themes emerged included communication skills, and increased competence and self-awareness. Conclusion: insights provided by the ACPiTs showed they recognised the value of mental health teaching and exposure within their training programme in advancing their knowledge and skillset and,
ultimately, increasing confidence in their clinical practice.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: May 30, 2019
• Publication Date: Jul 15, 2019
• Deposit Date: Jul 18, 2019
• Publicly Available Date: Jan 15, 2020
• Journal: British Journal of Nursing
• Print ISSN: 0966-0461
• Publisher: MA Healthcare
• Volume: 28
• Issue: 13
• Pages: 842-847
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2019.28.13.842
• Publisher URL: https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2019.28.13.842
• Related Public URLs: https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/loi/bjon
• Additional Information: Funders : The community psychiatric nursing association; Projects : An exploration of providing mental health skills in a generic advanced clinical practice programme