As a Nurse Consultant, I have played a pivotal role in the development of the Mental Health Co-Response Trial, a collaborative initiative between NALHN and SAPOL aimed at enhancing the efficiency of managing mental health events. The SAPOL Co-Responder program, which I have been actively involved in since its inception, has achieved commendable milestones, including a substantial reduction in emergency department visits and hospital admissions due to prompt access to mental health assessments and interventions. The team's outstanding contributions were recognised with the Premier's Innovation Award at the NALHN Awards in 2023, and we are currently nominated for the SA Health Awards. I am also proud to be a trained Authorised Mental Health Practitioner, bringing a specialised skill set to my role. Furthermore, my dedication and potential have been acknowledged through the receipt of the Emerging Leaders Research Scholarship for 2024.
· In partnership with SAPOL, this trial has been established to reduce demand upon SAPOL and Emergency Department resources.
· Since commencement, the Co-Responder team has been responsible for 90% reduction in conveyances to Emergency Departments for persons experiencing mental health incidences.
· Average time on tasking has reduced from 2.4 hours to 0.7 hours.
· 90% Fit for custody assessments remained in the cells. Previously, a detainee would have had to be transferred to ED, resulting in significant time savings for patrols.
· Significant reduction in ED conveyances has contributed to approximately $1,040,068 savings for SA Health
· Am able to work as an “Authorised Mental Health Practitioner” (AMHP), meaning I have the ability to place someone under ITOs and do Fit For Custody assessments.
· Conducted 25 Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) assessments.
· Evaluated and provided feedback on 25 3000-word essays
· Facilitated weekly tutorials and workshops for NURS2041
· Actively engaged with students through discussion board content, addressing queries and fostering academic discussions
· Demonstrated expertise in mental health nursing, contributing to a comprehensive learning experience for students.
· Maintained a supportive and inclusive learning environment, catering to diverse student needs.
· Played a pivotal role in shaping students' understanding of mental health concepts and practical applications.
● Provided direct patient care including daily monitoring, recording and evaluating psychiatric medical conditions for up to 6 patients per day.
● Responded to numerous volatile and violent situations in a calm and level-headed manner.
● Developed and implemented treatment plans for patients with a variety of mental health needs
● Consistently focused on policies and procedures including correct paperwork and effective note- taking.
● Worked with a range of patients, majority indigenous populations, forensic, mother and babies and adolescents.
● Treated an average of 22 patients per day and a key nurse for 5 patients.
● Gained experience in administering long term depot medication
● Managed patient care as well as medication, orders and treatment
● Gained an understanding of the Mental Health Act
● Consistently provided excellent care for patients
● In the community setting, established rapport with residents and worked together to develop effective treatment plans based on their strengths and goals
● Developed the ability to think quickly to manage violent and volatile situations
● Successfully completed three months basic training at Wagga Wagga, NSW
● Awarded most improved Solider award
● Demonstrated ability to manage difficult situations
● Adapted quickly and easily to new environments
● Learned the value of discipline and rank
● Upheld Army core values of courage, respect, integrity and teamwork