Elements and Performance Criteria
- Elements define the essential outcomes.
- Obtain client history and information for social and emotional wellbeing assessment
- Establish a relationship of trust with the client by demonstrating and respecting confidentiality of communications
- Use effective and culturally appropriate and safe communication skills to obtain a personal history from the client
- Seek information about relevant critical incidents with due sensitivity and respect for the physical, emotional and cultural safety and security of those affected
- Observe client closely to identify any signs of emotional disturbance
- Seek additional related information through consultation with family and/or significant others as required and with consent of the client
- Consult relevant allied professionals and available documentation in relation to the health of the client
- Record all information obtained according to principles of confidentiality and organisational procedures and policies
- Assess and determine client wellbeing
- Analyse information obtained to recognise signs and symptoms of mental disturbance and significant underlying emotional reactions to loss, grief and trauma
- Recognise issues that may relate to transgenerational trauma and grief for the individual, family and community
- Identify disturbances in behaviour that may suggest a psychiatric disability
- Promptly discuss with experienced staff any indicators of depression or suicide risk, and refer client to appropriate supports as required
- Identify issues requiring mandatory notification and report to supervisor and/or an appropriate authority
- Identify client’s self-management capacity and barriers
- Discuss findings with colleagues to determine appropriate course of action to support client’s wellbeing with reference to any existing health care plan
- Provide support to client
- Invite client and, with their consent, their family to discuss issues of concern in a supportive and confidential context
- Provide client with information to enable decision-making about their social and emotional wellbeing
- Support client to identify key self-management needs and goals and to determine appropriate self-care strategies
- Refer client as required and follow-up on referrals
- Refer serious or potentially serious issues to senior health staff for advice
- Assist and refer family to address own wellbeing and safety, as required
- Maintain current, complete, accurate and relevant records from each client interaction