Psychiatric Nurses

Psychistric nurses typically obtain some experience (one to three years) as a staff nurse before entering this specialty.

Psychiatric nurses should like working in a fast-paced environment that requires lifelong learning. Research into human behavior and the brain is constantly resulting in new information and treatment methods regarding patient care, drug therapy, and treatments.

In many cases, psychiatric nurses are confronted with situations that may require them to act immediately, independently, and confidently, so they must have good decision-making skills. They must also be good team players and able to get along with people from all walks of life. They must work with patients and families as well as other medical, administrative, and institutional personnel.

Psychiatric nurses must be able to deal with people in a troubling time of their lives. They must be able to communicate with the families and friends of persons with mental problems who may find the illness difficult to understand. Nurses need to display patience, understanding, and composure during these emotional times.

Many facilities require nurses to work 10- to 12-hour shifts, which can be very exhausting. In addition, nurses are often on call.