How do you specialise in eating disorders as a nurse?

MsLori615 · Jan 23, 2017

I don't think there is a specialize program. In order to do what you want, I would advise going to school for nursing and take some mental health classes as well, pass the NCLEX, and once licensed apply for medical depts. that deal with what you want to specialize.

You should look into becoming psychiatric nurse. They deal with all disorders such as eating disorders. If you are leary of dealing with extreme disorders like bipolar, schizophrenia, etc. just remember that the hospitals usually section that dept off so that that the extreme patients are in one area and the non-violent patients are in another. So you can have the benefits on walking with the non-violent patients.

I hope this helps. I'm not a nurse but my sister is a psychiatric nurse, so I'm going off her experience. She has worked in hospitals in New York (Columbia and Mt. Sinai) and MS (can't remember the hospital name).

Extra Pickles · Jan 23, 2017

The OP is in Australia, which has a different nursing education system (and the NCLEX is a US-based exam).

Sarah, you might want to post this in the International section, or even in General Nursing so that more people who know about Australian nursing can help you. You are smart to start thinking ahead! Good luck.

emily34812 · Jan 24, 2017

I don't live in Australia, but I know in the US you can't really specialize as an eating disorder nurse certification wise, but there is a psychiatric specialty. However, where I live there are plenty of inpatient and outpatient programs that utilize RN's to treat eating disorders.

caliotter3 · Jan 24, 2017

If no specialist certification, obtain employment in the field. Employer may sponsor training or subsidize advanced training. That is how many people get expertise in their areas.