People with serious mental illness (SMI) are more likely to experience severe health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and stroke, and are likely to die earlier, than the general population. This article explores the reasons for such disparities, using a case study approach to outline the ways that general nurses can support people with SMI when they access general healthcare services. It identifies five areas of learning from the case study: diagnostic overshadowing and stigma; developing the therapeutic relationship; the ward environment; inclusion of family members and carers; and integration of physical and mental health services.

This study sought to evaluate family intervention (FI) for psychosis that had been offered in routine practice by a dedicated FI service. Method: A retrospective analysis of electronic clinical records was undertaken to examine those who had received FI and their use of acute services (accident and emergency, home treatment, inpatient) in the two years preceding and following FI, as a measure of outcome. The analysis included 29 patients whose families had participated in five or more sessions of FI. Results: The demographics of the sample were diverse. While there was no significant change in the number of admissions following FI, there was a modest reduction in time spent in acute care, particularly use of home treatment. Conclusions: Notable demographic differences between families suggest referral decision-making in routine care warrants further investigation. The study also offers tentative support for the translation of good FI outcomes into routine practice though implementation rates remain low.