Any limitations as a Psych NP?

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I've been bouncing back and forth on pursuing a career as a psych NP, versus going to medical school which was my original plan. Ultimately, I want to be able to be an independent psych provider. It isn't necessary, but it would be nice to be able to start a business and run a practice. Psych NP seems like a good fit for me, with a quicker time to practice.

But as a clinician, which I will be first and foremost, am I limited in any way as to what I can do? For instance, could I:

- Order blood tests to rule out medical issues?

- Issue neuro consults to rule out neuro issues?

- Section 12s?

- Prescribe benzos if absolutely necessary?

Are there any limits to what I can and can't do as an NP (in MOST normal settings) versus a psychiatrist?

Any other advice from current psych NPs? How's the salary? ;)

BTW - I'll be practicing (at least initially) in Massachusetts.

Thanks in advance.

- Fred Nietzsche

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Specializes in Psychiatric Nursing.

As a Psych NP in Massachusetts, you can do the things you give as examples. I worked in MA for several years. You are required to have a collaborative agreement. Required collaboration is minimal but it is still required. You might want to look over the Nurse Practice Act. New Hampshire has independent practice.

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Specializes in Assistant Professor, Nephrology, Internal Medicine.

Are you a RN now? Usually you have to look at the nurse practice acts for any state, since APRN scope fluctuates depending on the state.

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