Responsibilities of a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse
There is a great range of specialty options for nurses in this field. Most often the Psychiatric/Mental Health nurse will work in a hospital setting as a specialist in treating and diagnosing patients. There are also a variety of opportunities in long-term care facilities, schools, and some private practice.
Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse responsibilities may include:
- Diagnosing and helping special needs patients manage acute and chronic illness.
- Conducting physical examinations and interpreting medical history
- Ordering and performing diagnostic tests and procedures
- Prescribing specific therapy and treatment options
- Primary and specialty care services for special needs patients
- Counseling and educating patients and family members
- Finding a unique approach or treatment alternatives
A Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse treats people of all ages with mental illness such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, dementia, or other disorders. Nurses in this field are dedicated and persistent, finding satisfaction in helping those in need overcome and manage their illnesses. Working with a physician, Psychiatric/Mental Health nurses deliver unique treatment options to a variety of patients.
I have my BSN an I am interested in the Psychiatric/Mental health nursing program. I see that this curriculum is on hold. How long with this hold be in effect? Should I consider another area of concentration?