Psychiatric nursing education at Public Universities in the State of Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

ABSTRACT

This documental, exploratory study used a qualitative approach to analyze the programs for the psychiatric nursing and mental health disciplines of the Nursing undergraduate programs of public universities in the state of Rio de Janeiro, in view of Psychiatric Reform. It was found that two programs offer courses that aim at developing competencies in agreement with the psychiatric reform process and the national health system (SUS), which include multiprofessional teamwork and interdisciplinarity. One program, despite showing flashes of promoting the development of aptitudes for mental health care, focuses on mental disability rather than on mental disorder. In conclusion, it is observed that changes are being made in psychiatric nursing and mental health education in the State of Rio de Janeiro.

Descriptors: Teaching; Psychiatric Nursing; Mental Health.