This is Module 2 of the Practical Approach to Mental Health Care course. The whole course consists of 4 modules and is for registered nurses, doctors and rehabilitation and therapeutic health professionals in Western Cape Government.

 Module 2 covers the management of mental health emergencies, including de-escalation, two types of restraint, admission, suicide and self-care.

About the course

  • Course Design: Self-directed

  • Duration: It will take approximately 4-5 hours to complete.

  • Eligibility for this course:
    • Healthcare professional working in the Western Cape.
    • Completed Practical Approach to Mental Health Care: Foundations

  • Certification: Participants need 70% pass mark for final quiz in order to receive a certificate.

  • Published: October 2024

Course curriculum

The following topics are covered in Module 2:

Managing mental health emergencies

Part 1: Initial management of the aggressive/disruptive client

  • Definition and examples of mental health emergencies
  • How to manage an aggressive/disruptive client
    • 4 steps BEFORE restraint

Part 2: Restraint & sedation of the aggressive/disruptive client

  • How to manage an aggressive/disruptive client continued
    • Restraint
    • Sedation

Part 3: Admission of the aggressive/disruptive client, suicide & self-care

  • How to manage an aggressive/disruptive client continued
    • Mentally ill client needing treatment or admission 
      • Case scenario 1: Maria
      • Case scenario 2: Themba
      • Case scenario 3: Piet
  • Self-harm or suicide
    • Recognising suicide risk & warning signs 
    • How to manage a client who is facing/thinking about suicide
      • Case scenario 4: Naledi
    • Suicide reporting 
  • Self-care 


Western Cape Government Department of Health and Wellness
People Development Centre

Acknowledgements:

  • Knowledge Translation Unit