Conducting a capacity evaluation is a critical aspect of health care, particularly when you’re faced with patients who may not be able to make informed decisions about their treatment. 

A feature of many psychiatric illnesses is a lack of insight into the need for treatment.

Health care proxy (HCP) and power of attorney (POA) are types of advance directives, which are legal documents allowing individuals to designate someone else to make decisions on their behalf, particularly when they are incapacitated. 

Patients often arrive at psychiatric hospitals under involuntary commitment orders, typically initiated by police or psychiatric mobile response teams. 

Informed consent is a cornerstone of ethical psychiatric practice.

The process from when you order a medication in an electronic health record (EHR) to when it arrives at the nursing station is complex and involves multiple steps. 

Pharmacists play a critical role in managing medication safety and efficacy and identifying potential drug interactions. You’ll collaborate closely with them to ensure optimal pharmacological care for patients.

Psychiatric technicians, also known as mental health aides or specialists, are unsung but vital members of the mental health care team.

Occupational therapists (OTs) play a pivotal role in inpatient treatment settings.

Social workers are key players on the inpatient psych unit, and working well with them can make your job a lot easier.