Self-injurious behaviors (SIB) are among the most pressing concerns you will face on an inpatient psychiatric unit. 

Patient confidentiality is a fundamental principle in psychiatric care. 

Once a patient who experienced suicidal thoughts is feeling better and is ready for discharge, help them create a safety plan so they can be prepared in case their emotional state deteriorates at some later point. 

When patients are admitted to psychiatric units, they often present with miscellaneous medical needs alongside their psychiatric conditions. 

Relaxation and deep breathing exercises are helpful for relieving anxiety and insomnia and you should include them in your repertoire of therapeutic tools on the inpatient unit.

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a counseling approach designed to fortify patients’ motivation to change, especially relevant in a psychiatric hospital setting where patients are often ambivalent about treatment.

Effective discharge planning is crucial for ensuring the continuity of care for psychiatric patients, minimizing their risk of readmission, and facilitating a successful transition back into the community.

Behavior management plans are tools for addressing and modifying a patient’s challenging behaviors. 

While empathetic listening, validating emotions, and scheduled medications effectively calm many agitated patients, they don’t always succeed.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is surprisingly common, affecting 10%–20% of new mothers in the first year after giving birth.