Any limitations as a Psych NP?

Nursing Students NP Students

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I've been bouncing back and forth on pursuing a career as a psych NP, versus going to medical school which was my original plan. Ultimately, I want to be able to be an independent psych provider. It isn't necessary, but it would be nice to be able to start a business and run a practice. Psych NP seems like a good fit for me, with a quicker time to practice.

But as a clinician, which I will be first and foremost, am I limited in any way as to what I can do? For instance, could I:

- Order blood tests to rule out medical issues?

- Issue neuro consults to rule out neuro issues?

- Section 12s?

- Prescribe benzos if absolutely necessary?

Are there any limits to what I can and can't do as an NP (in MOST normal settings) versus a psychiatrist?

Any other advice from current psych NPs? How's the salary? ;)

BTW - I'll be practicing (at least initially) in Massachusetts.

Thanks in advance.

- Fred Nietzsche

Specializes in Psychiatric Nursing.

As a Psych NP in Massachusetts, you can do the things you give as examples. I worked in MA for several years. You are required to have a collaborative agreement. Required collaboration is minimal but it is still required. You might want to look over the Nurse Practice Act. New Hampshire has independent practice.

Specializes in Assistant Professor, Nephrology, Internal Medicine.

Are you a RN now? Usually you have to look at the nurse practice acts for any state, since APRN scope fluctuates depending on the state.

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