Typical Day of a PMHNP

[fun.ny.bunny]

Hi! I'm curious about pursing a career in PMHNP. Can you please share:

• a typical day
• how you take care of your patients
• the benefits of this job
• hours and amount of days off

Thank you!

[ottersloveoysters]

I work outpatient psych with some days working on the consult team. Most of my days I see 8-10 patients for initial evaluations or follow ups for med management and I do some therapy with patients. Many patients I refer to a psychotherapist. On consult days I see patients in the ED and on the medical floors who need a psychiatric evaluation for things such as delirium, agitation, suicidal ideation, etc. I work full time 40 hours per week but I have colleagues who work fewer days or hours. The job is not typically physically demanding which is a plus for nurses who are used to being on their feet for 12 hour shifts. I typically work Monday through Friday with holidays off. I really like my job but I do think you have to really enjoy working with patients with mental illness in order to thrive. It's tough work emotionally and mentally.