Psychiatric RN Certification
Psychiatric Registered Nurses (also referred to as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners or Mental Health Nurse Practitioners) may work in primary care facilities, hospitals and community health centers. They evaluate and care for patients who are suffering from mental distress or mental illness. Their patients include those with disorders like depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis or dementia. Psychiatric nurses assess patients' needs based on their behavior and physical health. They then suggest treatment plans and continue to manage the care of the patient. In addition, they are valued as consultants and educators for families and hospital staff.
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Requirements for Psychiatric Registered Nurses
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A background in nursing is required to be a Psychiatric RN. To qualify you must have:
An active RN license in the United States or the legally recognized equivalent from another country
Worked at least two years as a full-time registered nurse
At least 2,000 hours of current clinical practice (within the last three years) in psychiatric mental health nursing
Recently (within the last three years) completed 30 hours of continuing education in psychiatric mental health nursing
Testing
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The American Nurse's Credentialing Center (ANCC) is a branch of the American Nurses Association (ANA) and administers the certification test. It's a computer-based test that is offered at over 300 locations around the country. You choose the time and place most convenient for you. You are allowed to apply all year and have a 90-day window to complete testing. Certifications do expire and must be renewed every five years.
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Discounts
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The U.S. Department of Defense (Dod) and the Veteran's Administration are offering a special discount on certification testing. The discount is $100 off the non-member fee. You'll need to provide proof of your affiliation with the Dod/VA when you send in your certification application.
Free Study Aids
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The ANCC has a Test Content Outline. You can use this free study guide to see the content areas included in the exam.
To help you best prepare for your exam, the ANCC provides free sample tests online. The sample questions give you an idea what to expect on the exam, but may not cover all areas of content or levels of complexity.
See the "Resources" section below for the Internet addresses of these pages.
Conferences and Group Study
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The ANCC holds review seminars at nursing schools and hospitals across the country. Study groups are also available. These follow the same format as the seminars and are conducted as telephone conference calls for your convenience. You can even request to have a seminar taught at your own school or hospital.
See the "Resources" section below for the Internet address of the full calendar of conferences and classes.
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References
Resources
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