Within
the discipline of psychiatric nursing there are two levels, basic
and advanced psychiatric nursing. The differentiation between
the two is primarily based on the level of care and attention the
patient needs. For
those pursuing basic psychiatric nursing, expect to work with
various caregivers and institutions to meet the needs of the
patient. Basic
psychiatric nursing will include mental health assessments,
assistance in diagnosing illness, a long term care plan,
implementation of the course of action and evaluation of the patient
and effectiveness of the plan.
Basic
psychiatric nursing has a goal to improve the mental health of the
patient so they are better able to cope as well as maintain a
healthy outlook for prevention of future mental deficiencies. Once that level of wellness
is attained, it is the goal of psychiatric nursing to assist in
maintaining it.
Psychiatric
nursing on a basic level is more focused on the patients ability to
care for himself and to administer, as well as monitor, the
effectiveness of psychobiologic treatment. Psychiatric nursing
professionals on the basic level also deal with crisis intervention
and case management.
Psychiatric nursing also holds a place for teaching mental
health issues and treatments to individuals and groups.
Psychiatric
nursing on an advanced level is considered a specialty and requires
additional formal training.
Masters degree psychiatric nursing schools will likely have
advanced psychiatric nursing programs available. Graduates of the psychiatric
nursing programs typically find career opportunities as nurse
practitioners or clinical nurse specialists.
Advanced
psychiatric nursing practitioners may assist in assessing,
diagnosing and treating those who have a mental issue arising from
family or group social issues as well as mental disorders. These psychiatric nursing
professionals also have all the training and experience to deal with
basic issues.
In
many states, psychiatric nursing professionals who have reached an
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse or APRN status, have the ability
to treat mental illness independently including being able to
prescribe medications.
Advanced psychiatric nursing professionals have a varied
choice in career paths from direct health care of the patient and
consulting to administrative duties and teaching
