Summarize the following:
Working in the psychiatric-mental health field as an RN translates to clinical practice, of which you will need 2000 hours should you desire to get certified as a psychiatric-mental health nurse. Look for jobs in this field to secure a position and get the experience you need. You can ask for a psychiatric rotation at a hospital if that's where you work, volunteer in a community program, or work as a psychiatric aide. Many employers will provide tuition reimbursement or assistance if you pursue an ADN, BSN, MSN, or DNP. Check with your employer to find out if this is something they offer. Certification is not required to work in the psychiatric-mental health field, but it can be useful for finding a job and could mean higher salaries. You'll need an RN license, two years' experience working as an RN, 2000 hours of clinical practice in the psychiatric-mental health field within three years, and 30 hours of continuing education in the psychiatric-mental health field within three years. Certification is administered by American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurses must be recertified every five years. The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) requires professional development plus either 1000 hours of practice as a psychiatric-mental health nurse or passage of the certification exam. Professional development includes continuing education, academic credits, presentations or publication/research, professional service, or teaching hours (preceptorship).
Work in the mental health field as an RN. Get board-certified as a psychiatric-mental health nurse. Maintain your certification.