Professionally caring for those with mental illness takes a specific set of qualities and skills – this is where mental health nurses come in. As a registered mental health nurse, also known as a psychiatric nurse, you would play a critical role in a patient’s assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and symptom management.
Mental health nursing occurs in a variety of settings including hospitals, community health centres, private practice, and correctional facilities. The role of a mental health nurse changes depending on workplace but typically involves assessing patients, creating treatment plans, maintaining patient records, administering medications, and educating patients and families.
Is a career as a mental health nurse right for me?
If you’re passionate about helpings others and are interested in a career in mental health, you might enjoy working in this profession. Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
- empathy for others
- strong problem-solving skills
- the ability to work well under pressure
- a strong stomach for medical situations.
How to become a mental health nurse
There are many ways to begin a mental health nurse career path. Typically, you will need a bachelor's degree in nursing or a related field, along with specialised training in mental health to become a mental health nurse. Additionally, practical experience and further certifications can enhance your career prospects.
Every journey to study is individual and there are many ways for you to pursue a mental health nurse career path. At UniSQ, we offer the following nursing degrees:
What is the average mental health nurse wage?
The average salary for a mental health nurse varies based on factors such as location, experience and workplace setting. Please see the salary information on this page for further details.
Yes, mental health nurses are in high demand. The Department of Health has predicted Australia will have a 40% shortfall in the mental health nursing workforce. A mental health nurse career path can include numerous opportunities within hospitals, clinics, community health centres and private practices.
What is included in the role of mental health nurses?
- Assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating nursing care for patients according to accepted nursing practice and standards.
- Working in consultation with other health professionals and members of health teams and coordinating the care of patients.
- Providing interventions, treatments and therapies such as medications. You may also monitor patients' responses to treatment and care plans.
- Promoting health activities and assisting in the prevention of ill health by participating in health education.
Can a mental health nurse diagnose a patient?
Mental health nurses can assess and identify symptoms of mental health conditions but the ability to make a formal diagnosis often depends on their level of training and certification. Typically, diagnosing is carried out by psychiatrists, psychologists or advanced practice nurses with specialised training.
Can a mental health nurses prescribe medication?
Mental health nurses do not have the authority to prescribe medication unless they have completed medical training and earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. They work under specific regulations and guidelines depending on their region and level of practice.
Can a mental health nurse work as a general nurse?
Yes, mental health nurses are trained in general nursing as part of their education. They can work in various general nursing roles if they choose to, although their specialised training equips them particularly well for roles focusing on mental health care.
How long does it take to become a mental health nurse?
Becoming a mental health nurse requires formal qualifications, usually a Bachelor of Nursing or related degree. Your journey on your mental health nurse career path will vary depending on your current level of qualification and career goals. In addition to formal education, gaining practical experience through internships or residency programs can significantly enhance skills and job prospects in the field.
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