lgrninmay

It's great to hear from a psych nurse with your experience. I may try to get some med surg experience while also pursuing the psych area. I am an older student with several years experience in a physicians office, which may help with the medical portion of psych.I would refer to a text or other resource, before I would ever say "I'm a psych nurse - I don't do that!" It's been many years since I have worked as a social worker - got tired of the low pay, contractual positions with no benefits, and systems that are not set up to benefit the client. I would rather have the medical knowledge on board, in working with clients. For example, as a SW I knew nothing about the meds that a client was taking, and had little medical knowledge related to their disease process. I am interested in case management also, and may pursue that avenue. Thank you so much for your imput!

Thank you ! You don't know how long I have wanted to hear that I don't have to endure a year of med/surg. Not that I don't respect those that choose that speciality, it's just not my thing. My instructors have been pushing the med/surg idea - (except my psych instructor). It's great to hear from those already in the field! I will be looking for a job in the Baltimore, MD area in May.

Hi! I will be graduating in May from an RN program. I am very interested in psych nursing and have had several job offers. I also have a BSW. Eventually I would like to go on for my Masters degree, in order to be able to be a therapist. I would like some advice from current psych nurses. Do I really need a year of med/surg first? Are you happy being a psych nurse? What suggestions can you give me to make a smooth transition from student to RN? Thank you!