A DAY IN THE LIFE OF... Mental Health Nurse Clinical Assessor Karen East
A window into the clinical world of our liability expert witnesses...
FIRST POINT OF CLINICAL CONTACT
As a Clinical Assessor in private mental health outpatient services, I serve as the primary point of clinical contact for individuals referred through their private health insurance or employer. My role involves assessing their mental health needs and guiding them toward the most appropriate care pathway. I start my day by reviewing my scheduled client assessments. Preparation is key as my appointments are often fully booked. Each client completes pre-assessment questionnaires before we meet, including the PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, and the Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS). These assessment tools offer valuable insights into their difficulties, and I pay close attention to any areas of concern, such as financial stress, health problems or risk indicators, to explore during our session.
LISTENING WITHOUT JUDGEMENT
Each clinical assessment is comprehensive and sensitive to the individual. I take a full psychosocial history, conduct a mental state examination, assess for risk and safeguarding concerns, and work with the client to build a picture of what they’re going through. Using a formulation-based approach, I offer a working diagnosis and discuss appropriate next steps. This may include psychological therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), or a referral to one of our consultant psychiatrists for medication review or further evaluation. I aim to ensure the person feels heard and supported, especially if they are struggling to trust mental health services. My job is to listen without judgment, assess their needs carefully, and help them move forward. It's a privilege to be trusted with people’s stories, and I approach every client with compassion, curiosity, and care.
MEETING AN INDIVIDUAL'S NEEDS
After each session, I record a detailed clinical summary in our electronic health record system. My notes are thorough, evidence-based, and written to support continuity of care. If someone presents with significant risk, such as suicidal thoughts or complex safeguarding issues, I liaise with their GP or other professionals involved in their care. This ensures that safety plans are established and any urgent medical concerns are addressed. I also share the safety plan with the client to ensure they are fully involved in the process. I regularly attend multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings with therapists, psychiatrists, and senior staff to discuss complex cases, raise concerns, and ensure that every client has access to the most appropriate care. This collaborative approach allows us to tailor
treatment to each individual’s needs and maintain high standards of care throughout the service.
SMOOTH HANDOVERS AND TIME FOR REFLECTION
On a typical day, I assess around six people. The work is fast-paced and often emotionally intense, as many clients present with trauma, suicidal ideation, or severe social difficulties. It’s not uncommon to see five complex cases in a row. That’s why selfcare, peer support, and reflective practice are all essential parts of my routine, along with making time for a quick lunch and taking moments to decompress when I can. I complete any outstanding documentation at the end of each day, respond to messages, and ensure smooth handovers for clients needing follow-up. I also reflect on the day with colleagues – these conversations help us process the emotional impact of the work and maintain our own well-being.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR LIABILITY EXPERTS
You can learn more about Karen and our other liability team members on our website, where you will also find details of our clear, concise and well-presented reports. Our experts are carefully selected, practising clinicians with 8+ years of clinical practice in their chosen professions. They are trained to understand the terminology and phraseology relating to the legal tests used in liability reporting. Should your case require it, they will attend conferences, undertake expert meetings, and give evidence in Court.
