Any one working in a Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit?

Jules A, MSN · Jun 27, 2008

I work in an Adult In-Patient Psychiatric Unit. But I am also interested in working in an In-Patient Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit. How is it working there? How's the staffing? What is a day in the life of a Psychiatric Nurse working in that unit? Any opinions/comments/stories? Thanks for sharing.

I do. For me there is something about the small glimmer of hope that a couple of these kids will make it out and have a happy life that keeps me there. Its frustrating at times on so many levels, dealing with social services red tape, the horrible abuse that most of these kids have experienced etc. Staffing issues are the same as anywhere, often understaffed, issues with the non-licensed staff either being fantastic or counter productive etc. Feel free to pm me if you have more specific questions. Jules

shinyblackcar · Jun 29, 2008

I am interested in working in child/adolescent psych as well. Do you know if they ever hire new grads?

Jules A, MSN · Jun 29, 2008

I think it probably depends on where you live but there are facilities that hire new grads if they have openings. Why don't you try calling HR at facilities in your area?

aloevera · Jul 1, 2008

I used to work in adolescent services but was transferred because I was PRN and they needed more continuity of a full timer....they finally hired a full time manager after working there 2 years....I really enjoyed it....I felt that I could really help the children (more so than the adults) and make a difference...you have to be on your toes...they can be manipulating, and their historys are heartwrenching....it does take a special person to work with the children but it can be very rewarding..

you have therapists, doctors, teachers, social workers all involved so there is a good team to be working with...also a lot of family involvement too....good luck......

collegegrad08 · Jul 2, 2008

I am interested in working in child/adolescent psych as well. Do you know if they ever hire new grads?

They sure do, in my area I have been offered a job at a small psych facility as well as have an upcoming interview with a rather large hospital with a psych wing that is bigger than the entire facility I have been previously offered a job. I just passed my nclex, so I'm as new as they get!

Both offers are for child/adolescent psych units. The possibilities are endless!

shinyblackcar · Jul 2, 2008

They sure do, in my area I have been offered a job at a small psych facility as well as have an upcoming interview with a rather large hospital with a psych wing that is bigger than the entire facility I have been previously offered a job. I just passed my nclex, so I'm as new as they get!
Both offers are for child/adolescent psych units. The possibilities are endless!

That is very reassuring! Congrats on the offer and good luck with the rest of your job search. Keep us updated!