Second semester BSN student interested in becoming a Psychiatric Nurse

Published

I am in my second semester and just finished week 3 of psych clinical rotations. Although I originally wanted to do hospice, I am leaning more and more toward psychiatric nursing- this seems to be where I feel most comfortable, oddly enough. Almost everyone thinks I belong on the INSIDE for wanting to do psych nursing, but I am really drawn to it and feel as though I have something to offer these patients. I have a close family member with multiple mental health disorders and feel this experience will help me relate to my patients, and hopefully give me insight on how to help them. Is there any advice you PSYCH nurses out there can give me? For instance, how did you know that was your calling? Do you regret it? The only ones I know are the instructors at the University I attend, and I would like some honest, unbiased feedback. Thank you all so much in advance for your responses.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Psych. Violence & Suicide prevention..

I worked the registry as a CNA during nursing school and after graduating. The MH facility kept asking me back. When they learned I had my RN I was offered a job. 1986 there was a lot of insurance money for mental.health and we had a busy facility with an adult and children's Units. Of the three children's units, I was put me in charge of the locked adolescents unit. I whet my teeth as a new grad with a staff of behavioral specialists. Those folks were students of psychology and social work. All young, educated and beautiful' just like me. The facility invested in the staff, sending us to group building experiences and regular monthly In-services covering a medication or diagnosis. Man how Supported I felt and appreciated. I learned about teamwork. I felt accepted and at home.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you for your feedback, sounds like you had a positive experience. I hope to find a place where I fit in and feel at home as well!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion