![]() While asepsis applies to both medical and surgical procedures which is the absence of potential pathogenic micro-organisms. Day et al (2007) described how pre-registration mental health nursing students near the end of their course spent two hours in the clinical skills laboratory practising hands-on skills, building on the theory they had.To the editors of the Pan African Medical JournalĪseptic technique is the use of practices and procedures such as hand hygiene, non-touch techniques, appropriate aseptic field, sterilized equipments and cleaning existing key parts to minimize the presence of disease causing pathogens. Users of mental health services may require wound care for injuries such as burns, self-harm, venous leg ulcers and abscesses related to intravenous drug use. The DH (2008) stipulates that all staff involved in undertaking aseptic technique should receive appropriate education, training and assessment in the skill, while criteria for proficiency in infection control stipulate that students should 'safely perform basic wound care using clean and aseptic technique under simulation'. This is supported by the publication of Essential Skills Clusters (NMC 2007), identifying five key areas in which all nurses should be competent before registration. ![]() The chief nursing officer's recommendations for mental health nursing (DH 2006b) emphasise the importance of including these skills in the pre-registration nursing curriculum and the role of mental health nurses in providing physical care. Pre-registration mental health nursing students traditionally do not have the same opportunities as those in other branches of nursing to learn about the clinical skills associated with physical health care and to practise using them. Related issues, including necessary equipment and key steps in the procedure, are also addressed.įor ten years, the importance of physical care for mental health service users has been highlighted in a range of reports (Mentality and National Institute for Mental Health in England 2004, Department of Health (DH) 2006a, Disability Rights Commission 2006). This article describes the principles underpinning aseptic technique and discusses them in the context of mental health nursing. It is imperative that nurses working in mental healthcare settings are proficient in this skill and understand the theory behind it. Good aseptic technique is essential for all nurses, regardless of their branch or field of practice (Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) 2007), to minimise infection and promote healing. ![]() Mental ill health can have a negative effect on the immune system, putting mental health service users at increased risk of infection (O'Carroll and Park 2007), and it is important that this is recognised in the provision of physical care, such as attention to wounds. ![]() A comprehensive review of the literature by Robson and Gray (2007) identifies the many physical health problems that people with mental health illness may experience. MENTAL ILLNESS can affect a person's ability to maintain good physical health and wellbeing-ensuring clients' physical care needs are adequately met is a fundamental part of holistic nursing care (O'Carroll and Park 2007). The need in all clinical procedures for attention to the client's dignity, privacy, confidentiality and comfort is discussed.Īseptic technique, non-touch technique, wound care Here is an opportunity to review aseptic technique in line with recommendations, and to revise the underlying principles. Mental health nurses should understand, monitor and assist with the physical care needs of service users, including wound care.
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