The role of psychiatric mental health nurses

The American Psychiatric Nurses Association notes that psychiatric mental health registered nurses develop a nursing diagnosis and plan of care, implement the nursing process, and then evaluate their plans for effectiveness. Psychiatric mental health nursing is a subcategory of nursing, and professionals working within that category may serve in various capacities. For example, the APNA notes that psychiatric mental health advanced practice registered nurses (PMH-APRNs) employ a full scope of therapeutic skills to assess, diagnose and treat individuals and families with psychiatric disorders.

Are there specialties within psychiatric nursing?

Psychiatric mental health nurses can specialize in various areas if they so desire. Some areas of specialty include child and adolescent mental health nursing, gerontological-psychiatric nursing, which focuses on caring for older adults, and substance abuse disorders.

How much education is required to become a psychiatric mental health nurse?

According to the APNA, students interested in a career in psychiatric mental health nursing can pursue various degrees on the road to taking their registered nurse licensing examination. Programs vary, but students can consider two-year programs that focus on earning an associate’s degree in nursing, three-year programs that focus on earning a diploma in nursing or four-year programs at colleges or universities that lead to a bachelor’s degree. Graduates of each of these programs are eligible to take the RN licensing exam. However, students interested in advanced roles within psychiatric mental health nursing, such as the PMH-APRN role, should plan to enroll in advanced masters or doctoral degree programs.

The field of psychiatric mental health nursing is challenging and rewarding. Anyone considering a career in nursing can visit www.apna.org to learn more about the vital role psychiatric mental health nurses play in modern health care.