Learning through human connectedness on clinical placement : Translation to practice

This chapter explores a range of challenges for students as they learn to apply interpersonal skills within the mental health practicum placement and other non-mental health settings. Exploration of the student's own attitudes, expectations and positive engagement within practice begins the chapter. This is followed by discussion of power relations characterising the therapeutic relationship, including the development of emotional competence. The chapter outlines reflective practice as a critical thinking process and clinical supervision for the beginning nursing student within mental health nursing. It explores the importance of developing skills to work within a trauma-informed care and practice framework that is mindful of potential vicarious trauma or secondary trauma at the personal level. How to go about developing objectives for practice, and the process of self-assessment and personal problem solving are discussed in the context of various clinical settings. Reflection, self in-action and post-placement will also be explored as they relate to learning in mental health. Throughout this chapter, critical examination of the ethical and political influences on care that extend beyond individual engagement with the person experiencing mental illness will be highlighted.