Models of case management for working with young children: implications for mental health nurses

The care of children with behavioural disorders/mental illnesses is an important and emerging role for mental health nurses. Unfortunately, there is little evidence on which to base their practice. Children, because of their rapid emotional, physical, and cognitive development, and their dependence on their families, need special consideration in their mental health care. The limited evidence available indicates that this special consideration should include a focus, not only on the child, but also on the parents and social and school networks of the child. Evidence from the adult literature indicates the most effective case management models are the ones in which the case manager offers as many services as possible, including talking therapies. This also seems to be true when working with children. Mental health nurses, because of their background and commitment to holistic care, are ideally suited to offer this type of service. However, mental health nurses have not been good at articulating what they do. This can limit the recognition of the contribution they make and their opportunities.