How to Become a Psychiatric Nurse

Psychiatric nursing is a distinctive role in the nursing profession, providing the opportunity to investigate mental health and psychology. Rather than primarily focusing on physical care, psychiatric nursing centers on mental well-being. Mental disorders arise in different ways than physical ailments, requiring psychiatric nurses to possess specialized skills. For instance, a stethoscope does not detect symptoms of depression. Known also as mental or behavioral health nurses, these professionals can profoundly influence the lives of their patients, despite facing various challenges in their field. Not all mental health issues are addressed with medications; sometimes, individuals need understanding and the development of effective coping strategies. This article will examine the role of a psychiatric nurse, covering topics such as: - Definition of a psychiatric nurse - Typical duties of psychiatric nurses - Mental health conditions treated - Work environments for psychiatric nurses - Pathway to becoming a psychiatric nurse - Expected salaries - Job outlook in the field of psychiatric nursing Let's get started! What is a psychiatric nurse? A psychiatric nurse specializes in the care of patients dealing with a variety of mental health disorders, including: - Mood disorders - Eating disorders - Addiction disorders - Psychotic disorders - Substance use disorders Mental health nurses work with patients across all ages, from children to elderly individuals, often assisting those who have had traumatic experiences. Providing emotional support, coping strategies, and therapy are fundamental to their role. Moreover, psychiatric nurses collaborate with professionals such as case managers, social workers, and psychiatrists to implement and manage treatment plans and discharge procedures. What are psychiatric nurse duties? Psychiatric nurses come in two main varieties: registered nurses (RNs) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs). The daily responsibilities of psychiatric nurses differ based on their specific roles, with many overlapping duties. A psychiatric nurse's daily activities may include: - Performing mental health evaluations - Administering medications and tracking their effects - Teaching patients coping strategies - Running group therapy sessions - Collaborating with other healthcare professionals What conditions does a psychiatric nurse treat? Psychiatric nurses are responsible for numerous mental health disorders. Some of the more common conditions they encounter include: - Mood disorders Often, psychiatric nurses work with individuals experiencing depression or bipolar disorder, where patients may feel drained, hopeless, or display manic behaviors characterized by sleeplessness and inflated self-perception. - Psychotic disorders Those experiencing psychosis may have hallucinations that can lead to atypical or aggressive behavior, commonly found in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, as well as those using certain drugs. - Eating disorders Individuals with disorders like bulimia or anorexia frequently struggle with self-worth and distorted thinking, often coexisting with other mental health challenges. - Addiction issues Patients grappling with substance addiction can develop additional mental health complications. Treating this condition involves navigating detoxification, withdrawal symptoms, and discovering the underlying issues. Psychiatric nurses meet patients coping with a wide range of mental health concerns during each shift. Where do psychiatric nurses work? Psychiatric nurses practice in an array of environments, including: - Government agencies - Hospitals - Correctional facilities - Clinics - Assisted living facilities Moreover, remote mental health services have gained popularity, allowing psychiatric nurses to offer their services from home. The increase in telehealth has improved accessibility to mental health care, opening new doors for both patients and healthcare providers. How do you become a psychiatric nurse? Step 1. Complete a nursing program The first step in becoming a psychiatric nurse involves obtaining either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). It may also be beneficial to volunteer at a mental health facility to gain insight into this specialty. Additionally, some may opt to pursue a psychology degree to enhance their understanding of mental health and behavior, which can further improve nursing practice. Step 2. Secure your RN license After completing a nursing degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain your RN license, at which point you can begin applying for nursing positions. Step 3. Gain experience Acquiring experience is vital. While you can pursue psychiatric nurse positions right away, it may be wise to explore other nursing specialties first. This can help you determine your commitment to psychiatric nursing and also provide essential experience in other areas. Step 4. Acquire psychiatric nursing certification While certification isn’t mandatory, it is encouraged. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) provides this certification, requiring candidates to meet specific criteria, which include: - Holding an active RN license - A minimum of two years working as a full-time RN - Completing 30 hours of continuing education in psychiatric nursing within a three-year period - Gaining a minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical experience in psychiatric nursing within a three-year timeframe Step 5. Seek advancement in psychiatric nursing For those wanting to advance their career, becoming an Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse (APPN) requires a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. Ensure your educational institution is accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing or the National League for Nursing. For a comprehensive list of programs, refer to the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) website. How much does a psychiatric nurse make? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for RNs is approximately $82,750. The earnings of psychiatric nurses depend on factors like educational background, experience, and geographic location, averaging around $79,790 per year. In contrast, psychiatric nurse practitioners can earn an average salary of $104,398 annually. What is the job outlook? In the U.S., one in five individuals experiences a mental health disorder, with one in twenty designated as seriously mentally ill (SMI). The necessity for psychiatric nurses remains high, with employment growth for RNs projected at 6% from 2021 to 2031. Furthermore, as the baby boomer generation ages, the demand for nurses in this specialty will continue to rise. If you are contemplating a career in psychiatric nursing, consider exploring this fulfilling and essential field."}