Diagnostic classification systems and nursing diagnosis of collaborative problems.

In this paper the context, function and need for mental health classification and diagnosis systems are considered. Alternative ways of assessing patients with a mental health disorder, such as the use of Nursing Diagnoses approved by the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA), and a collaborative model of care incorporating Psychiatric Nursing Diagnoses are explored. Specific positive and negative aspects of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) are also examined. Mental health nurses are able to care for their patients/clients without DSM, but the value of DSM in a multidisciplinary approach to mental health care is sufficient for it to be used in conjunction with and complementary to models of mental health nursing. The NANDA-approved nursing diagnoses in mental health nursing are contrasted with a collaborative approach to the diagnosis and management of clients with mental health problems.