ATTENTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for 24/7 free and confidential crisis support. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Access more info and resources on suicide prevention, emotional and mental health support. 
toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Psychiatric nurse

Top of the page

Psychiatric nurse

Psychiatric nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who provide mental health education, treatment, and counseling to individuals and groups in a variety of settings.

Psychiatric nurses hold a nursing degree and certification (RN). This requires a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) from a 4-year university or an associate degree in nursing (ADN) from a 2-year college. All graduates must successfully pass the Registered Nurse Licensing Examination. Graduation from a state-accredited program is a prerequisite to taking the licensing examination.

Advanced practice nurses (APNs) are RNs who have met advanced educational and clinical practice requirements. They work as Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) or as Nurse Practitioners (NPs). APNs who specialize in mental health nursing diagnose and treat individuals or families. And in many states they can prescribe medicines.

A registered nurse must hold a current license in the state in which he or she practices. Licensing requirements are managed by individual state boards of nursing.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Take Care, Someone Needs You.

You take care of others, so take care of yourself. Let us be your partner in health, whether you're recovering from an injury, checking in for your annual exam, or enjoying an online class.

Because when you take care of yourself, everyone around you benefits.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Boise (208) 381-2222