Psychiatric-Mental Health Certification

Whispera, MSN, RN · Jan 24, 2009

I took the exam in the 90s and it was difficult--it reminded me of the NCLEX. The study manual the ANCC sells was pretty helpful, especially the practice test. There were med questions, side effects questions, safety questions, and you picked the best answer even though sometimes all were correct. There were also questions about psych theory and group therapy theory. I remember a couple about Yalom, so you might want to look him up. I had never heard of him when I took the test. Know about milieu concepts and the variety of therapies a psych patient might be in, if hospitalized.

Good luck. No one I worked with ever failed it!

Deb117 · Jan 24, 2009

I took the exam in the 90s and it was difficult--it reminded me of the NCLEX. The study manual the ANCC sells was pretty helpful, especially the practice test. There were med questions, side effects questions, safety questions, and you picked the best answer even though sometimes all were correct. There were also questions about psych theory and group therapy theory. I remember a couple about Yalom, so you might want to look him up. I had never heard of him when I took the test. Know about milieu concepts and the variety of therapies a psych patient might be in, if hospitalized.
Good luck. No one I worked with ever failed it!

Thanks so much, Whispera - that helps tremendously!!!

Quilter0225 · Jan 26, 2009

At what point in your career do you all suggest taking this test? Is it best to take it with a few years experience under your belt, or is this something I should be studying right away to bring myself up to speed?

Whispera, MSN, RN · Jan 26, 2009

You can't take the certification exam until you have a certain number of hours of experience (I don't remember how many, but ANCC can tell you). I took mine after one year of experience.

eileenis1 · Jan 28, 2009

I took it in the late 90's and found it to be easy because I studeied through the book and did the practice questions.

Billikin · Jan 31, 2009

I bought the ANCC book like you have and studied from that for months. It's alot of information to remember. Yes, the test was very hard, just like the nursing stateboard. It's a 3 hour computer test with 175 questions. They ask you about nursing theories,medications and everything else that's in the book. Many questions are things you can't study for and have to use your gut instinct. If this is something you really want, I say go for it. Just do it. I was so nervous sitting there and managed to pass. If I can do it, so can you. Good Luck and let me know how it's going.

nurse lala, BSN, RN · Mar 9, 2009

:nurse:I actually logged in today to discuss this topic. I have specialized in MH more than 20 years ago. I have worked in every type of unit and with every representative of the population from children to geriatrics. I decided it is time to get the certification. Right now if you work for the Federal govt, you can get a $100 of the price.

What I have learned is that the book is out of publication pending updating the book scheduled for release in June 2009.

Does any one have any ideas how to get the book: Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Review & Resource Manual? I have searched the internet used book sites (yes, Amazon does not have it). I really appreciate your suggestions.

Thanks everyone!

Billikin · Mar 11, 2009

Go the ANCC web site and you'll be able to purchase your book there. It's a bit pricey,but it's worth it. Good Luck.

nurse lala, BSN, RN · Mar 12, 2009

Unfortunately, it is not orderable from the ANCC, although it is listed as being available. The new edition will be released later in the year.

Aydia1 · Jun 18, 2009

I recently took and passed the ANCC exam. I did use the book provided by ANCC, but another nurse suggested the review manual by springhouse publishers. It is quite a bit cheaper than the ANCC manual, and I felt it was very useful. I ordered it through BarnesandNoble.com. I really liked the questions at the end of each chapter and the post-test at the end of the book.

carolineaji · Nov 8, 2009

International Trained Mental nurse

Would you have information regarding international trained psychiatric nurse job opportunities in Alberta. Qualified 2 years ago and has been practicing since. Need to relocate to Alberta re: hubby's job. How do I go about getting job? I know i need to register with the nursing board.