Psychiatric-Mental Health Certification

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Hello! I am currently studying to take the certification exam for psychiatric-mental health nurse through the ANCC. Has anyone taken this test? Was it horribly difficult? Was there alot of focus on meds, theory/learning stages? I am studying the manual (the one the ANCC sells), but not sure what to focus on? Any advice would be most welcome! :typing

Specializes in Hospice, corrections, psychiatry, rehab, LTC.

I have taken (and passed) the exam. I thought it was worse than the nursing board exam. IMO they ask many questions that are outside the scope of practice of an RN (questions about steps to be taken in behavioral therapy and so forth).

I am curious about your motivation for taking the exam. I took it for professional satisfaction and potential advancement. I found that most employers don't care about certification, and they do not pay for the test or give additional salary for it. I found ANCC certification to be of no value professionally, and I did not renew at expiration time.

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I took it about a year ago. I thought it was pretty easy and probably "over studied" for it. It was a lot of theorists if I remember correctly. But a lot of it was common sense stuff you use every day. I used the ANCC book, and followed the outline on the website.

I work at a magnet hospital and certification helps if you want to move up the clinical ladder. And my hospital reimburses too.

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Specializes in Psych.

I took it in October. Meds, learning theories, Family therapy theories, cognitive therapy. Pretty broad based exam. Reminded me of the N-Clex, tough questions but score to pass is not high.

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What book did you use to prepare for the test?

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I am getting ready to take the exam soon, any new info that would be helpful, I would appreciate.

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Specializes in Psych, Informatics, Biostatistics.

Me too. I don't like the ANCC book; I think there is better value with two other books. The test does not appear to be all that difficult, though I haven't taken it yet.

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Thanks,I am studying, and paying more attention to lab values, and the meds. I got 2 review test type books from my hospital library. My hospital reimburses $300 of test price, and a bonus of $500. each year. Also, since they are firing nurses for not having a BSN in 10 years, thought it would be a good idea to bone up.

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Specializes in Psych, Informatics, Biostatistics.

I like Victoria Mosack's book. I plan on taking the exam sometime in November. I also purchased Gaylord's psych nursing for the NCLEX. I fall short in Therapies and drugs.

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Specializes in Psych, Informatics, Biostatistics.
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.

U will need to take the Canadian boards.

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I am panning on taking the certification exam does anyone have this manual that they are willing to sell. I would also buy the

2nd edition if anyone has it.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Review & Resource Manual, 3rd Edition.

Thanks

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