First day on Behavioral Health Unit

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Hi

Tommorow is my first day on the behavioral health unit as my new job. My previous experience in psych was one rotation during nursing school that I don't remember to well. I was wondering if there was any advice that the more experienced nurses could give me. Are there some things I should make sure I do or anything I should avoid. Also, are there any books that I can get to help me along? I ordered a psychiatric care plan book off the internet but maybe there is better guide I can get.

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Specializes in telemetry, med-surg, home health, psych.

Watch and observe the nurse on the unit..............pay close attention and learn !!!!!!!!!!!

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Keep us posted as to how your first day was. I am also interested in psych and would love to know your experiences.

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Specializes in Psychiatric.

I would say this: 1) Learn from the nurses on the unit 2) Don't go into ANY patient room alone and 3) Don't wear anything around your neck. Other than that, just be willing to learn...and enjoy your day! :)

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Keep your personal space as a boundary, no matter how "normal" a person seems always remember they are there for a reason and dont trust them/fall in to a false sense of security, refrain from jewelry. I always tell another nurse which room I will be in if I must go alone.

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I am interviewing for a psyc. job on Thursday. I just had Psyc. last year at this time in Nursing School but I still don't know anything. I want the job but I am a little worried myself.

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Specializes in Psychiatry (PMHNP), Family (FNP).

HI I agree with Aloevera and earthchild and will add: no matter what you do, expect to feel a little out of place for six months give or take. There is so much to learn at first. I didn't know which end was up for about 6 months. After that, much smoother sailing. Just be yourself, first and foremost. All the best to you!

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Specializes in psych, addictions, hospice, education.

There are lots of books written by people who have psychiatric disorders. They helped me empathize with patients. Look for Kay Jamison (I think that's her name). She's a psychiatrist with bipolar disorder. Her books are quite good.

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Do not give out personal information to your patients. Don't forget that you and the client have a nurse-patient relationship and not friendship. Ensure that when you discuss patient's issues, it is patient-centered instead of you discussing your life and issues with the patient.

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So NAYA1978, how has psych nursing treated you so far?

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I second the tip on not wearing anything around your neck. Our hospital gave us little lanyads with a safety release for our keys and badge during orientation. What a dumb idea! An angry lady ripped them off of me and I hurt my hands trying to get the pointy keys and badge back from her. At least the safety latch kept me from getting choked, but my keys go in my pocket now. lol

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Don't be afraid. The patients will sense if you are afraid and they will try to get to you. I have worked psych for several years. I remember being a student 27 years ago and was so afraid to work on psych--afraid I would say the wrong thing. They are patients just like all other patients. Treat them with respect as you would all other patients. Enjoy your learning experience

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