I Need Help In My PMHNP Program

[Mr. Haldol]

I am in a PMHNP program and just beginning to really get into my major classes. This is a new program, like first year. I have a background in ICU, ER, and Psych. I feel as though the professors have not gotten their rhythm yet. They are great clinicians but relaying their knowledge and teaching on the graduate level is another thing. I can only imagine how frustrating this can be for them as well. I find myself watching YouTube to help fill the gap. Hell, they will instead of recording a lecture just post something off YouTube as well sometimes. It is turning into nothing more than read pages 1-100 and test in 2 weeks. The DSM-5 is dense and combining that with ICD-10 is worse for a beginner. I can break it down along with my other review books. What upsets me about that is when test time comes it will be questions over material that was not in the book. I have a good grade so far but it makes me uneasy to the point it feels like I am walking in the dark. I need more resources to break down psychiatry in easy and understandable ways. Clinicals could fill the gap but my preceptor is the follow me and watch type hardly explaining choices. Anyone have any suggestions like good case study books, practice questions similar to boards, or maybe even conferences?

[Onin2]

As a recent grad from a newer program I can understand your concerns. My advice is 1) study the DSM. 2) if Stahl is your required text(s) keep them handy and get the e-versions. 3) if Stahl is not required (as it should be) get them anyway 4) UptoDate is your friend. 5) communicate with your instructors and peers. 6) get a better preceptor (easier said than done). 7) If you are working, cut back on hours, APN study is time consuming don't set yourself up for failure by trying to do too much.

[HikingNinja, BSN, MSN, DNP, RN, APRN, NP]

I'm currently in a PMHNP program and these are my go to's. Also I have a wonderful preceptor (which helps immensely). The pharm book is like $10 and extremely helpful. The diff dx book has all the decision trees and is a life saver also. And hey, if your school allows you to do telepsych my preceptor is telepsych and is accepting students for summer and fall. From any state and any school. They already have like 10 schools they have clinical contracts with. Just sayin.

Memorable psychopharmacology you tube videos - I'm sure you know these well by now

Psychopharmacology made ridiculously simple book

DSM 5 Handbook of Differential Diagnosis by Michael First

[SCSTxRN]

I like dsm5 made easy and stahls