Identify the Needs of Individuals with Mental Health Needs and Plan Appropriate Actions

Learning outcomes

1 Understand how to assess the physical health needs of individuals with mental health needs

1.1 Analyse how physical and mental health needs may be linked and may impact on one another

1.2 Describe needs-led assessment and person-centred planning

1.3 Describe legislation, policies and procedures that apply to the assessment process

2 Be able to carry out assessments of the physical health needs of individuals with mental health needs

2.1 Obtain valid consent

2.2 Carry out an assessment of an individuals’ physical health needs in line with agreed ways of working

2.3 Communicate accurate information in a way that is sensitive to the personal beliefs and preferences of the individual

2.4 Explain why it is important to consider all information gathered during the assessment process as a whole

2.5 Identify where the outcomes of the assessment require further advice, investigation or referral

3 Be able to record the outcome of assessments

3.1 Record assessments in line with agreed ways of working

3.2 Explain why agreement on sharing of information with others may conflict with the wishes of the individual

3.3 Discuss the content of the assessment records with the individual

4 Be able to plan actions needed following physical health assessments

4.1 Describe the actions that could be taken to meet the individual’s needs identified by the assessment

4.2 Identify the risks attached to various courses of action

4.3 Plan actions to be taken in line with agreed ways of working

5 Be able to identify resources and services needed by individuals following physical health assessments

5.1 Identify the resources and/or services required by the individual as a result of the assessment

5.2 Give an example of a situation where an individual’s needs should be met even when it is difficult to secure resources

6 Be able to make referrals

6.1 Obtain and record valid consent where referral is required

6.2 Make referrals in line with agreed ways of working

6.3 Describe why a referral may be refused