Article

Nursing Services

Department head: Dawn Sell, DON

The mission of the nursing department is to deliver excellent, compassionate, competent, and cost-effective patient care in a recovery-oriented environment focusing on the unique needs of the patient population in order to return individuals to the community. Registered nurses direct nursing care throughout the hospital on each shift.

Nursing at Logansport State Hospital is founded on the principles of the Indiana nurse practice act, the Indiana division of mental health directives, the hospital’s mission, vision, and values and defined by evidence-based knowledge supporting best practice. Mental health nursing includes holistic care of those with mental disorders, patient advocacy, promoting a safe environment, and promotion of recovery.

Nursing patient programs are developed utilizing a patient-specific needs assessment for individuals in a psychiatric setting. Evidence-based nursing activities are designed to maintain or improve health status, prevent illness or injury, promote wellness, provide skills for recovery and offer supportive care.

The delivery of nursing care is provided by professional nurses including:

• Nurse practitioners
• Registered nurses
• Licensed practical nurses
• Special attendants

The model of service is a para-professional one, with most direct care being delivered by special attendants and licensed practical nurses assigned and supervised by registered nurses.

The model for treatment planning is comprehensively provided by an interdisciplinary treatment team of which nursing is an integral member in the implementation of the plan.