What does a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner do?

What is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?

A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner plays a crucial role in providing psychiatric assessments and ongoing treatment to clients, contributing to the overall mental health and well-being of patients. 

At Discovery Behavioral Health, our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners embody our commitment to comprehensive and compassionate care. 

They actively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, engage in continuous education, and uphold rigorous ethical standards, all of which contribute to the culture of care that defines DBH. 

Learn about: 

• What a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner does - duties and responsibilities
• How to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner - qualifications and requirements 
• How you can make a difference as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

What does a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner do? 

As a key player in the delivery of comprehensive mental health services at Discovery Behavioral Health, the Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner takes on a diverse set of responsibilities, ranging from clinical oversight and assessment to professional development, and communication, all of which contribute to the exceptional standards of care upheld by our organization.

Clinical oversight and assessment

• Under the direction of the Medical Director, conduct psychiatric assessments, ongoing medication monitoring, and discharge assessments for all clients.
• If acting as the Medical Director, ensure compliance with state regulatory, licensing, and accreditation requirements.

Communication and collaboration

• Effectively communicate concerns about client health to the Medical Director/Director of Nursing and follow up as necessary.
• Facilitate medication education for new clients and those starting new medications.
• Meet with therapists to provide information about client psychiatric/medical problems.
• Assist the treatment team in incorporating medical issues into treatment planning.
• Maintain effective communication between outside medical services and the facility.

Care coordination and integration

• Assist in the coordination and integration of medical/nursing services with other client care services to ensure continuity of care for each client.
• Participate in team conferences with the multidisciplinary team and potentially engage with a client care committee.

Professional development and compliance

• Attend and actively participate in all "in-service" functions to stay informed about evolving practices.
• Maintain confidentiality of all clients and facility activities.
• Stay updated on required Training & Continuing Education, adhering to Standards of Ethical Conduct.
• Comply with all Policies and Procedures established by DBH. 

How do you become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner? 

To become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Discovery Behavioral Health, individuals are required to… 

• Graduate from an accredited or approved Registered Nursing program, obtaining licensure as both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Registered Nurse while ensuring the maintenance of current licensure following state requirements. 
• Additionally, prospective candidates should possess a minimum of one year's experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ideally within a program focused on managing addictions or behavioral health issues. 
• Familiarity with Joint Commission Standards is essential, showcasing a commitment to meeting rigorous quality and safety measures. 
• Moreover, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in communication, both written and verbal, highlighting the importance of effective interpersonal skills in this role.
• Current CPR certification is also a prerequisite for applicants aspiring to contribute to the impactful work conducted within Discovery Behavioral Health.

Make a difference in a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner job at DBH 

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at DBH, you have the chance to contribute to a culture of care that prioritizes excellence, collaboration, and the well-being of our diverse patient population. 

By joining our team, you become a crucial part of an organization that values your expertise, provides growth opportunities, and fosters a supportive environment. 

If you are passionate about making a positive impact in the field of behavioral health and embracing a role that combines clinical excellence with empathetic care, we invite you to explore our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner jobs.