Advanced Practice Nurse (Psychiatric)

Nurse Practitioner Duties

Conducts comprehensive psychiatric evaluations across the lifespan by obtaining and synthesizing biopsychosocial histories, mental status and physical findings, and diagnostic information; applies the current DSM to diagnose acute, chronic, and complex psychiatric and substance use disorders.

Prescribes and manages psychotropic medications and other psychiatric treatments; orders and interprets clinically indicated laboratory and diagnostic studies; monitors therapeutic response, adverse effects, and medication safety, and modifies treatment based on findings.

Assesses and manages psychiatric emergencies and high-risk presentations, including suicidal or self-harm risk, behavioral instability, and substance-related crises; determines appropriate level of care and coordinates admission, discharge, transfer, or referral to higher-acuity psychiatric services.

Develops, implements, and evaluates individualized, evidence-based and culturally responsive psychiatric treatment plans for patients with psychiatric disorders and co-occurring medical or psychosocial conditions, including psychotherapy when within scope of practice and certification.

Provides psychiatric consultation and subject-matter expertise to physicians, advanced practice providers, and interdisciplinary teams regarding complex psychiatric cases, psychopharmacology, clinical protocols, and continuity and coordination of behavioral health care.

Maintains accurate and compliant psychiatric documentation and participates in behavioral health program evaluation, quality and performance improvement, patient and family education, and adherence to applicable accreditation, regulatory, and clinical practice standards.

Department of Health and Human Services