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Psychiatric Nurses

Psychiatric mental health nurses provide care to individuals who have acute and chronic mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, depression, dementia or psychoses. They may also work with patients who are victims of physical or sexual abuse, as well as those with behavioral issues, such as substance abuse or eating disorders. 

Psychiatric nurses assess the mental health needs of patients under their care. They work with other staff, such as social workers, counselors, doctors and therapists, to determine a diagnosis, develop a plan of care, and educate both patients and families on behaviors related to mental disorders. Along with standard nursing duties like drawing blood and administering medications, a mental health nurse must watch patients closely to note any behavioral changes. This is especially important in assessing the side effects, successes or failures of a new medication. In some instances, nurse may also be needed to help calm patients or conduct group therapies.

Psychiatric nurses are experts in crisis intervention, mental health assessment, medication and therapy, and patient assistance. Psychiatric nurses work closely with patients to help them manage their mental illnesses and live productive, fulfilling lives.

When working with a new patient, psychiatric nurses start by interviewing and assessing them to learn about their history, symptoms, other ailments, and daily habits. A psychiatric nurse will usually work with people who have:

  • anxiety disorders, like panic attacks and phobias;

  • mood disorders, including bipolar disorder and depression;

  • issues with substance abuse, such as drugs and alcohol; or,

  • Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

The mission of the Spartanburg Area Mental Health is to promote the rights and best interests of patients and those actually or potentially making use of psychiatric services for mental illness, including substance use disorders.

Mental Health Nurse

Like psychiatric nurses, mental health nurses work closely with patients who have mental health issues. SAMHC nurses are experts in assessing, diagnosing, and treating psychiatric problems. SAMHC nurses work as part of a team to provide total medical care for patients. Some common duties for mental health nurses include:

  • Evaluating mental health needs of patients

  • Developing treatment plans

  • Providing psychotherapy services

  • Providing personal care

  • Coordinating with families, doctors, and other health professionals

  • Administering medications

Mental health nurses work as part of a team of professional and medical staff that includes doctors, social workers, therapists and psychiatrists. They support people with issues ranging from anxiety and depression to personality and eating disorders or addiction to drugs or alcohol. Mental health nurses may specialise in working with a particular group, for example young people or offenders.