Trauma-informed care is an approach in mental health care and nursing practice that recognises the existence of trauma in the life of patients receiving mental health care, irrespective of whether or not the trauma is known to exist (Isobel & Edwards 2017). Clinicians who employ this approach acknowledge the complexity of trauma, and integrate the principles of safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment in care delivery (Qadara, 2013). Using this approach can result in better patient outcomes as well as more effective and fulfilling clinical practice. This essay discusses how trauma-informed care informs the provision of mental health care in Australia at a policy level and for consumers. Also, the essay highlights how this approach will influence the author’s mental health nursing practice.Before progressive further, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of what trauma-informed care entails. Trauma-informed care involves recognising the existence of traumatic experiences in mental health patients, the significant effect of trauma on those patients, as well as their care experiences (Isobel & Edwards 2017). Indeed, trauma is prevalent, with diverse and multifaceted impacts on mental health patients. Trauma may originate from various sources such as neglect, abuse, and violence, ultimately resulting in maturational difficulties, impaired social function, emotional problems, as well as physical health complications (e.g. unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted illnesses, and cardiovascular disease) (Qadara, 2013; Muskett, 2013; Mental Health Coordinating Council [MHCC], 2013). As per the philosophical tenets of trauma-informed care, mental health practitioners have a responsibility to ensure an emotionally and physically safe environment (Isobel & Edwards 2017). They must strive to minimise iatrogenic harm and to prevent re-traumatisation during the course of care delivery. Indeed, re-traumatisation is a common outcome in mental healthcare delivery (Wilson, Hutchinson & Hurley 2017).

Trauma-informed care focuses on not only patients, but also clinicians (Isobel & Edwards 2017). Similar to patients, clinicians may be victims of traumatic experiences, hence the need for addressing their needs. In fact, nurses may not effectively address the needs of patients if they are not properly empowered. Empowering nurses creates an environment where nurses also feel emotionally safe to address the psychological needs of patients.

It is worth noting that trauma-informed care does not necessarily...

Instead, trauma-informed care means having awareness of the possible presence of trauma and its impact, and providing care in a manner that guarantees physical and psychological safety (Isobel & Edwards 2017). Also, employing the trauma-informed care model does not mean abandoning recovery-oriented models (Isobel & Edwards 2017). Trauma-informed care offers an alternative way of conceptualising therapy and recovery. Nurses begin to understand the physical and psychological effects of trauma on individuals and the influence of past events on the present interactions needed to promote recovery. In essence, trauma-informed care seeks to value and empower the patient in every step of the care process.
For nurses to employ the trauma-informed care model, they ought to have a proper theoretical understanding of the model. According to Muskett (2013), lack of understanding of the model on the part of nurses is a major obstacle to effective implementation. This problem can be attributed to, among other factors, limited research on trauma-informed care within the Australian context (Wilson, Hutchinson & Hurley 2017). Poor understanding of the model can lead to resistance or non-commitment to the model, thus hindering the achievement of the desired outcomes. Training nurses on the principles of the trauma-informed model, how it works, and its implications on their responsibilities within the care setting is crucial for building their understanding of the model. From internal memos and meetings to notice boards, newsletters, formal documents, workshops, and informal discussions, the organisation should make use of numerous channels to empower nurses with knowledge on trauma-informed care (Isobel & Edwards, 2017).

Literature has demonstrated the effectiveness of trauma-informed care in improving the delivery of mental health care. Trauma-informed care makes patients feel valued, respected, empowered, informed, connected, and hopeful of recovery (Muskett, 2013; MHCC, 2013). This can result in increased patient satisfaction. Trauma-informed care can also change patients’ perceptions of care and recovery as well as clinician-patient relationships, further improving patient satisfaction. Furthermore, trauma-informed care can enhance patient outcomes by improving patients’ compliance with care and knowledge of self-help techniques. For Wilson, Hutchinson & Hurley (2017), trauma-informed care enhances the patient’s experience of mental health services, and fosters a positive…