The Psych Nurse GP relationship
This abstract will discuss negative, positive and challenging experiences a psych nurse has encountered with GPs within the Barwon Region and Geelong. It will examine the types of relationships encountered, developed and accomplished. This is quite a unique relationship that has developed since its inception and has placed a lot of trust and understanding. It is also understood that this presentation gives me a way of expressing and discussing a number of emotions, interactions and consensus to further improve relationships.
My approach at time is humanistic such as: I see that each client has problems that have resulted from their mental illness, and that there is a chance for them to live independently. I believe that the relationship clients and GPs develop is better for them, it’s normal. Such as medication can provide part of a clients treatment, a similarity can be asked of MHS. I always advocate for my patient and helping GPs see that the person is more than the illness. I get so passionate about as my role as a Psych Nurse and hopefully it’s this passion that comes across when establishing relationships with GPs. Being prepared for any type of meetings with GPs whether it be face to face at their surgery, over the phone or preparing important information for then to follow is treated with respect. I have deliberately chosen my role models both professionally and as yard sticks within the Psych Nursing feild. I believe that these significant nurses have contributed to the way I have developed relationships with GPs.
In the last 5 years I don’t wonder about being successful this has been but how supportive to this day General Practitioners continue to be. 145 GPs look after 166 clients with severe mental illness and feel comfortable providing appropriate care. This is reflective on the GPs survey results over the last 4 years. Developing positive Psych Nurse relationships is important and fundamental in many ways. I have enjoyed this journey and look forward to what the future brings. I have had the opportunity to see how Psych has developed both in patient care and delivery. Who would have thought back in the 50s that Psych Nurses would be doing what I have had the opportunity in doing.