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Mental Health Nursing
Mental health nursing, also known as psychiatric
nursing, is a specialized field of nursing practice that
involves the care of individuals with a mental health
disorder to help them recover and improve their
quality of life.
A mental health nurse is a professional nurse with
added training to work in the mental health field. He
or she is responsible for not only the physical wellbeing of patients, but their emotional and mental
health as well. Mental health nurses may work in
mental hospitals, clinics, and public hospitals which offer counseling or mental health services. Some
counselors or therapists may also employ the services of a mental health nurse, depending on the type and
size of the practice.
Mental health nurses have advanced knowledge of the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric
disorders that helps them provide specialized care. They typically work alongside other health
professionals in a medical team with the aim of providing the optimal clinical outcomes for the
patient.Mental illness can affect individuals of any age, ethnic origin, or socioeconomic status. For this
reason, a mental health nurse may need to work with many different individuals from various
backgrounds.
Role
A mental health nurse is responsible for the
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Assessment and evaluation of the patient’s mental health
Development of treatment care plan
Consultation with other health professionals about treatment plan
Provision of care and psychotherapy treatment
Maintenance of medical records
Support and education to the patients and their family
This primary role of a mental health nurse is to provide care to patients with a psychiatric disorder, mental
health issue, or behavioral problems. Many of the tasks performed by a mental health nurse are similar to
that of a psychiatrist and include diagnosis, psychotherapy, and prescription of medications.
Some mental health nurses also choose to specialize further, such as in the management of individuals
with a psychiatric disorder of a certain age or association. These may include pediatrics, adolescents,
geriatrics, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
Training and Education
There are several training education pathways that can lead to a career mental health nurse practitioner
(APRN-PMH). As it is a specialization of nursing, an individual must first complete a Bachelor degree in
Nursing and pass the board examination in order to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Following graduation and registration, they may then go on to complete a master’s degree or doctorate in
advanced practice nursing, with a specialization in psychiatry and mental health. This degree includes
extensive clinical experience as a core part of the curriculum and, upon graduation, the nurse may also
choose to complete a one-year residency to develop their skills further.
In the United States, mental health nurses are certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner
(PMHNP-BC), which is conducted through the America Nurses Credentialing Center.
Career
An individual well suited to a career as a mental health nurse may have the following qualities:
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Interest in mental illness and behavioral disorders
Compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental
Exemplary communication skills
Emotionally stable with strong self-awareness
Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Attentive to detail
Mental health nurses may work in a range of environments, depending on the position and the role that
they play. This includes hospitals, psychiatric practices, substance abuse programs, in-home care services,
and community agencies.
The work schedule of the nurse will depend greatly on the setting in which they work. For those working
in hospitals or practices with round-the-clock care, it may include shifts at nighttime, on weekends, and
holidays. However, those in community agencies or private practices tend to work regular daytime hours.
f the mental health nurse is also trained in counseling or therapy, she may also help with the patient’s
sessions. Many times a counselor will use non-medication techniques for many ailments while the doctor
prescribes medications when needed. The training needed in addition to a typical associate’s or bachelor’s
nursing degree varies based on location, but generally requires courses in counseling or psychology.
To become a mental health nurse, students may take courses in a two- or four- year program, followed in
most cases by a comprehensive exam on course material. Some areas may require some additional training
in the mental health field, while others may require on the job training for any specialty a nurse decides
to obtain. Mental health nurses, primarily those working in a hospital setting, are required to have patience,
since most patients there are under extreme stress or may exhibit odd behaviors due to a mental illness.
Mental health nurses play a crucial role in the healthcare system, providing essential support to patients
with various mental health conditions. They are often the first point of contact for individuals seeking
help, whether it's for an ADHD diagnosis or other mental health issues. Their expertise in assessment,
treatment planning, and ongoing care management is invaluable. They not only help patients navigate
their mental health journey but also advocate for their rights, ensuring they receive the best possible care.
Their work is a testament to the importance of mental health in overall well-being.