Central Montana Times

The field of psychiatric nursing is integral to the comprehensive care of individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Psychiatric registered nurses (RNs) play a crucial role in a multidisciplinary team that often includes psychologists, physicians, social workers, and other healthcare providers. Their responsibilities are centered around supporting and assisting patients with acute or chronic mental health conditions.

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Providence prepares graduates for this demanding field. The program emphasizes patient-centered care and equips students with the necessary skills to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Graduates are trained to deliver compassionate nursing care across various stages of life.

Psychiatric RNs are licensed professionals who specialize in mental health treatment. They collaborate with diverse healthcare providers to address patients' mental health symptoms or crises. "Psychiatric registered nurses often serve as the intermediary between different providers," ensuring cohesive treatment plans.

Their duties include assessing and monitoring patients' physical and mental health, administering medications, documenting progress, supporting diagnostic testing, and communicating with families about patient progress. These nurses find employment in hospital emergency rooms, psychiatric units, community health centers, long-term care facilities, behavioral health centers, and even within criminal justice institutions.

To become a psychiatric RN, one typically earns a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from an accredited institution, passes the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure, gains experience in nursing—preferably in psychiatric settings—and then pursues professional certification. The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification (PMH-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center is a common choice among practitioners.

This career path not only offers opportunities within registered nursing but also paves the way for advanced practice roles such as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) or clinical nurse specialist (PMHCNS). These positions allow for further specialization and advancement within the field.

For those interested in pursuing or advancing their career in psychiatric nursing, information on relevant programs can be found on the University of Providence's nursing program page.