illcleff

I wanted to ask how others are making out finding jobs as entry level PMHNPs. Can anyone recommend any websites or resources used? I have been using Google and most of the jobs I am finding require some experience. Is anyone going through recruiters? Any help will greatly be appreciated. Thanks.

@ barnstormin', BSN, RN and ICURN7 thanks. Its such a great and relaxing feeling. Good luck

So I took and passed the PMHNP ANCC certification examination earlier today. How I prepared -I used the Fitzgerald workbook with the CDs that I purchased from Amazon. I listened to this 2 times - used the ANCC course manual which I also bought off Amazon. Read it cover to cover - upon graduation, my school organized and ANCC review course for us and we got a handbook with that. Read over that once. - Bought Barkley 2 set questions ( $30 each) - Bought ANCC practice tests online $125 ( 2 set questions 59% and 60%) - close to questions on the test - Bought 15 bundle questions from anccprep.com --not too helpful. Safe up your money - NCLEX review books from undergrad - just for practice. Nothing like the test questions obviously. - Did the free practice tests on the ANCC website for each specialty. -- helpful. Saw 4-5 questions exactly from those tests. God luck with anyone out there preparing to take the test. Don't panic. Information on the test although broad was not to bad.

Steve I feel the same way. Been studying since I graduated in June. Have done Fitzgerald and used the ANCC book. I also bought the practice tests from the ANCC website. There's something about this test that scares me. Some days I feel like I'm ready and other days I doubt it. 8 of us got together after school and have created a Facebook page. So far 6 have passed. They all say the test is easier compared to the practice tests. I have been tempted to change my date several times but have left it the same as I want to cool down with this unnecessary anxiety. I can't wait to get this over with.

@gilsam PMHNP-BC. Thanks a lot. I'm very nervous about the exam. Have used the ANCC book alongside questions. I have made index cards and going over main concepts. Sometimes I feel as though I am over studying as I have heard most questions are critical thinking based. Are the questions similar to those on the practice test?? Easier or harder. I'm trying to stay positive and hoping for the best 🙏🏾🙏🏾

Thanks for sharing. I'm taking mine in a few weeks.

Time off is a much needed reward for all the hard work. I graduate in June 2015 and I have already started counting down. Especially for some of us who haven't had a break from school since undergrad. WE ALL DESERVE A BREAK. WHY NOT TRAVEL.

Good luck guys, it sure is a very exciting feeling. I am currently in my final year at Drexel University (FPMHNP). It has been a great journey so far. I wish you all the best. Let me know if you guys have any questions. All the best. God bless.

Girl have you thought about going back to school for your masters. Bedside nursing is not for everyone. That why I like nursing because there are different options to choose from. For instance after I graduated, I worked on a busy med surg unit for x3 years ( which was enough for me). I transferred to a psych ER which I fell in love with. This motivated me to go back for my PMHNP which I will be finishing up next June. Once you switch jobs and figure out what you really want to do, maybe you can look into grad school. Good luck with everything.

I want some input on this please. I took this job in January that paid very well. Today, I got a call from HR saying they made a mistake with my pay rate and needed to drop it. I'm talking almost $10.00 difference. My question is that can this be done as I signed my acceptance letter ( which is an legal agreement between myself and this company)? All your views will greatly appreciated because I have never heard if this. Thanks

Congrats!!!!! What a great feeling. Welcome to the world of nursing.

Med surg is not meant for everyone. Psych nursing comes with its own set of skills. You are still doing the basics of nursing : assessments, planning and implementation of treatments.. I on the other hand work in a very busy psychiatric ER where I sometimes start IV 3-5 times in a 12 hour shift. The psych floors in the other hand is different. If you are that worried, talk to your manager and ask to follow an IV nurse a day or two.

Everyone is entitled to their 30-45 minute break so make use if it. It's better if u leave the area, sit , relax, eat it even have a personal time. Our job is very stressful and I know sometimes you just can't take a break but the bottom line is whenever you can, take one.

Thanks for the support. I made it through the quarter with an A and A+. It wasn't bad at all. Hard work and determination can get u a long way ??

I guess the psychiatric floor are different but I currently work in a psychiatric ER with a ratio of 1:6. But we have a Tech, a psychiatric attending and about 4-5 security officers on duty. It can get pretty busy especially when there are very sick patients, restraints and all. As Valnoslo mentioned, it is alway good to have a supportive staff. That makes a lot of difference.

I have been a psychiatric nurse for over 3 years. The key is communication techniques that are used. Some patients need a calm approach to manage their anxiety and agitation while others need strict limit setting. My advice is not to be afraid because the patients can sense it and some will take advantage of it. Be confident and non-judgemental. Psychiatric nursing is not for everyone because it can be emotionally draining on the nurse but it will help give you a different perspective about live in general. Take a nice deep breath because there is so much to learn.

Thanks everyone for your honest opinions.

My fellow NP students out there, I know I am crazy but do you think its feasible to take t advanced pathophysiology and pharmacology together? I am very determined to do this and will put in all the time and effort needed. Thanks for your honest opinions.

Congrats, I really wanted to go to SLU but was denied d/t Rhode Island State laws on distance learning. On the brighter side, I got accepted to Wilkes University's DNP program....Yay!!!!

Congrats and it sure will be worth it in the end. I also will be transferring to Wilkes University's DNP program and pretty excited. God luck to all of us.

Currently enrolled at Drexel but I am also looking at less travelling so applied to SLU and Wilkes University. Keeping my fingers crossed.

It's possible since I have many friends doing that however it all depends on which schools you're looking at and their requirements. Best of luck to you.

Your hardwork really paid off.. Congrats

I applied and still waiting to hear back too. Currently at Drexel and looking to transfer.

I started NP school this past fall working full time (3 12hour shifts) and it was totally doable. I attend part-time (6 credits/quarter). I must say though that time management is key with online classes. Like you, I am also single without kids. YOU CAN DO IT!!! I have heard that things do get crazy once clinicals start. Will see how things go but for now I am managing fine. Hope that helps and Good Luck!!!!!!!!!