Psychiatric nursing or mental health nursing is the appointed position of a nurse that specialises in mental health, and cares for people of all ages experiencing mental illnesses or distress. These include: schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, paranoia, and self-harm.
Nurses in this area receive specific training in psychological therapies, building a therapeutic alliance, dealing with challenging behaviour, and the administration of psychiatric medication.
In most countries, a psychiatric nurse will have to attain a bachelor's degree in nursing to become a Registered Nurse (RN), and specialise in mental health. Degrees vary in different countries, and are governed by country-specific regulations.
Mental health nurses can work in a variety of services, including: Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), Acute Medical Units (AMUs), Psychiatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs), and Community Mental Health Services (CMHS).
A licensed practical nurse (LPN), in much of the United States and Canada, is a nurse who cares for people who are sick, injured, convalescent, or disabled. In the United States, LPNs work under the direction of physicians. In Canada, LPNs/RPNs work autonomously similar to the Registered Nurse in providing care and are responsible for their individual actions and practice. In California and Texas, such a nurse is referred to as a licensed vocational nurse (LVN).
Another title provided is "registered practical nurse" (RPNs) in the Canadian province of Ontario.
A person can generally become an LPN with two years of training; all U.S state and territorial boards also require passage of the NCLEX-PN exam. In Canada, the education program ranges from two to three years of post-secondary and students must pass the intensive Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE).
The Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) provides basic medical care, including changing bandages, administering medication, and collecting specimens. Administers nursing care under the supervision of a registered nurse or other medical supervisor. Being a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) monitors and reports changes in patient's condition to supervisor. Ensures the health, comfort and safety of patients by assisting with bathing, feeding, and dressing. In addition, Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a registered nurse or supervisor. Requires graduation from approved LPN educational program. Requires a state license to practice. Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)'s years of experience requirement may be unspecified. Certification and/or licensing in the position's specialty is the main requirement.
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