In view of the importance currently attached to evidence- based health care, we present a systematic review of publications about the effectiveness of community mental health nursing interventions. Only eleven studies were identified which used an experimental design, focused solely on the nursing intervention, and where conducted in the UK since 1965. Not only is the evidence limited, but it does not examine those areas of work in which most community mental health nurses are involved, and the methodological rigour of the identified can be questioned. Others type of research with the potential to inform community mental health nursing practices are suggested. Research into the outcome of community mental health nursing interventions has made disappointment progress over the past decade. In the present drive toward evidence-based health care, it essential to define and measure the nursing contribution to health to ensure that professional and training resources are   deployed most effectively.  

Brooker Charlie et al / 1996