[FeelGDRN]

[quote=katyosu2006]In most states, psych CNSs can also do med administration. I don't believe that is the difference between psych CNS and NP. I have also done a lot of research on this and it did seem that the NP would eventually phase out the CNS. However, there has definately been a resurgence of the psych CNS in many states and I don't believe they will be going anywhere.[/

Im speaking from research based on schools offering the NP role. And the chances of them being biased are high. I do see a need for both CNS and NP roles in the field. I was told the requirements for RX authority are changing and require medical assessment training. Ive seen alot of need for advance practice nursing for both NP and CNS in the community programs. This is from the east coast, I cant speak for the other areas of the country.

[healer_energy]

Thank you for the input. I started school yesterday and so far it seems that I will get what I need. I am going to also take the one credit psychopharmacology course offered in the NP program. I don't particularly want to prescribe meds but if I get the job I want, a working knowledge is needed because this nurse makes suggestions that are co-signed by the psychiatrist. From what I see, the range of meds are very limited - it seems only about 4 are being used in this arena. I am also excited that my interest in alternative methods of healing is also validated by the instructor and I am encouraged to include this in my consideration and discussion.

I did start a program to get a master's degree in psychology previously but the students and faculty were so rigid and they seemed afraid to talk about their feelings in the counseling exercises that I dropped out. "Well, I'm going to pretend to be a depressed person." said my partner. Right.. and I can feel the dark sadness radiating from his person. And I got him out of it, at least temporarily, I'm sure. When it was my turn, I had the instructor, and I certainly took advantage of the moment. I got some great advice that helped me immensely at the time. This might seem silly but being quite empathic myself, I could feel it all the time. I didn't think I could conform enough to be comfortable.

My new class mates are all nurses, of course, and varied but interesting and open-hearted. I felt immediately at home, which is difficult for me in new groups because of the impact of new people on me. Anyway, it is all good!

Sonya

[FeelGDRN]

Good for you. Empathy is the first requirement for the field. Study the psychopharm. You will find, as in other areas of nursing, that you know the patient better than the doctor. It puts you in a better position to help. Rock On!
Brian

[Whispera]

I'm a psych CNS in Indiana (we're pretty rare in Indiana--in fact, some schools have closed their psych CNS programs due to lack of interest). I work in a large mental health center that has a 60 bed hospital as well as all forms of outpatient treatment. I assess and diagnose mental illnesses, prescribe medications and therapies for mental illnesses, and do some with some patients. It's very rewarding work. Where I work there is a medical NP doing the same things I do, and 4 medical NPs who do a whole lotta physicals. I've heard psych NPs do medical as well as psychiatric assessment, prescribing, and treatment.

I guess it depends on what you want to do with your time at work. Talk with people in your area who do the jobs you think you'd like, to make an informed choice.