Assessment of Mental Health Nurses’ Competences: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: Research has explored how undergraduate nursing students or Registered Nurses acquire and assess competences through simulations or training programs. However, there is limited evidence regarding Mental Health Nurses (MHNs) in regular clinical practice. This review aims to identify the clinical competences— knowledge, skills, or attitudes—of MHNs in their clinical practice, and how these are evaluated.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted across four databases (PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycInfo) adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) extension guidelines, applying a double screening process.

Results: Twenty-three studies were selected, focusing on nursing competency acquisition programs and assessments tools. The quality of the included studies was deemed acceptable. The findings indicated that educational programs improved professional competences. Among the assessment tools identified, sixty-six were validated while thirty-four were researcher-developed. Most tools targeted core MHN competences, such as physical health (Physical Health Attitude Scale for Mental Health Nurses) and psychiatric emergencies (Attitudes towards Containment Measures Questionnaire). Fewer tools addressed crosscutting competences (Clinical Competency of Mental Health Nursing). 

Conclusions: There is a clear need to develop tools specifically designed to assess mental health nursing within Specialized Health Training Programs. To strengthen competency acquisition and evaluation, it is recommended that complementary methods, such as simulations, feedback, and targeted tools, be integrated into MHN training and assessment.