Psychiatric nursing

Psychiatric nursing or mental health nursing is the appointed position of a nurse that specialises in mental health, and cares for people of all ages experiencing mental illnesses or distress. These include: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, paranoia, and self-harm. Nurses in this area receive more training in psychological therapies, building a therapeutic alliance, dealing with challenging behavior, and the administration of psychiatric medication.

History

The history of psychiatric nursing dates back to the 1800s when the first asylums were opened. The care for the mentally ill in the asylums was primarily given by untrained keepers, who were often instructed by the physicians. The moral treatment era in the 19th century marked a significant change, emphasizing humane treatment and the belief that mental illness could be treated. Dorothea Dix was a pioneering figure during this time, advocating for better conditions for the mentally ill and the establishment of state hospitals. The 20th century saw the evolution of psychiatric nursing as a specialized field, with the introduction of psychiatric nursing training programs and the expansion of nurses' roles in mental health care.

Education and Training

To become a psychiatric nurse, one must first complete a degree in nursing, either an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse (RN). Following this, nurses can pursue further specialization in psychiatric nursing through graduate programs such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), focusing on mental health. Additionally, psychiatric nurses can obtain certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to become a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

Roles and Responsibilities

Psychiatric nurses play a crucial role in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of individuals with mental health conditions. Their responsibilities include:

• Conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations
• Developing and implementing treatment plans
• Administering and monitoring psychiatric medication
• Providing crisis intervention services
• Offering psychoeducation to patients and their families
• Facilitating group therapy sessions
• Advocating for patients' rights and well-being

Psychiatric nurses work in a variety of settings, including psychiatric hospitals, general hospitals, community mental health centers, and private practices.

Challenges

Psychiatric nursing can be a challenging field, dealing with patients who may exhibit unpredictable or violent behavior. Nurses must possess strong communication skills, empathy, and resilience. They also face ethical dilemmas, such as balancing patient autonomy with the need for treatment and managing the stigma associated with mental illness.

Future Directions

The field of psychiatric nursing is evolving, with an increasing focus on evidence-based practice, recovery-oriented care, and the integration of mental health services in primary care settings. There is also a growing recognition of the importance of cultural competence and the need to address disparities in mental health care.

See Also

• Nursing
• Mental health professional
• Psychiatry
• Clinical psychology