new to MH

You should read your nursing program psych syllabus and read the chapters on your textbook if you still have it.

Don't stress too much before starting; you will learn the most important things on the job. When you start on the unit take mental note of how experienced RN's and techs on the unit handle difficult clients. No matter how the clients are acting, always treat them as you would treat any other adult person--with respect; take care not to talk down to anyone. When you need to set limits, give a rationale. Give the mental health techs the same amount of respect you do the MDs and RNs.

Recall the basics of therapeutic communications

know the basic diagnoses: psychoses, schizophrenias, bipolar, depression, personality disorders.

General classes of medications

Recognize early signs of patient escalation, and intervene early.

Try to start from least restrictive measures.

Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI Training) | CPI

Home - American Psychiatric Nurses Association

Thank you all so much!