@article {Patterson:December 2008:1445-8330:410,
	author = "Patterson, Christopher",
	author = "Curtis, Janette",
	author = "Reid, Amanda",
	title = "Skills, knowledge, and attitudes expected of a newly-graduated mental health nurse in an inpatient setting",
	journal = "International Journal of Mental Health Nursing",
	volume = "17",
	year = "December 2008",
	abstract = "<P></P>Mental health nurses (MHN) are at the forefront of care and treatment within acute inpatient settings. Research suggests that newly-graduated MHN are unsure about the skills and knowledge that they are expected to possess, and are expected to practice at a level that they are not prepared for in their undergraduate courses; however, research focusing on competencies for newly-graduated MHN is scarce. This study aimed to identify competencies expected of newly-graduated MHN working in a regional mental health facility in New South Wales, Australia. Eight registered nurses (with varying levels of experience) participated in individual semistructured interviews. Four themes were identified, and termed: communication, safety, self-awareness, and treatment. Within these four themes, 14 competencies were described that detail clear aims for new graduates, provide a better understanding of mental health nursing, and promote specialized and competent practice in mental health.",
	pages = "410-418(9)",
	url = "http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/bsc/inm/2008/00000017/00000006/art00005"
	doi = "doi:10.1111/j.1447-0349.2008.00572.x"
}