Why did you choose to become a psych nurse?

[tylerspeedster]

Hi, I'm currently a sophomore in college and was recently drawn to psych nursing because of my passion for helping the disabled and being able to hold more than just a counseling role. Going by personality tests, I'd perform well in careers like social worker and physical therapist. These are great, but I think I'd get bored after a few years. Being that I'm currently taking classes, time in dwindling down for me to finally decide on a major. Getting a BSN in nursing and eventually becoming an NP seems like it would be a rewarding career and suit my personality. From what I've read, no two days are the same. But it also seems like a good amount of people want to switch specialties after a few years. I don't like talking about myself but it seems the nurses on here always ask younger people why they're interested in nursing.

My question for you is, when did you realize psych nursing/nursing in general was right for you? And if you're currently looking to get out of the field, why? Please don't hesitate to be as honest as possible. Thanks

[Jacob Rockstar-RN]

I like being a psych nurse because it's like being the guy who brought all the drugs to the party.

[ShelbyaStar]

I'm a student and from the get go thought I might like psych. I've always found it interesting. I've been working in group homes for the last couple years and have dealt with a range of issues, of course mainly MR but also a range of psychiatric and personality disorders. Of course it's pretty different from nursing, but I have dealt with some of the yelling and physical behaviors and sexually inappropriate clients.

It doesn't really bother me. It definitely does some people that don't have patience or can't let things roll off their back. I'm not crazy about dealing with violence but at least a nurse has more tools at their disposal.