nurse practitioner blog
Explore a wide range of topics from evidence-based
mental health practices to
real-world applications
Helping you stay informed and confident in your practice, whether you’re navigating the challenges of starting out in the field as a new psychiatric nurse practitioner or looking for more insights to enhance patient care, the Stress Free Psych NP Blog offers practical advice, expert tips, and a supportive community dedicated to your professional growth and success.
Treat Tardive Dyskinesia: What Every PMHNP Should Know
In school as an NP student and later in clinical practice, I learned that prescribing benztropine (Cogentin) for extrapyramidal side effects was appropriate. What I didn’t realize was that there are times when prescribing benztropine—or any anticholinergic—can...
Prescriber Mental Health Matters Too
As mental health providers, we often advocate for balance, rest, therapy, and sometimes medication. But too often, we neglect taking the advice we give to our patients which can contribute to provider burnout. Prescriber mental health deserves just as much attention...
Neurotransmission Rules for Prescribing Psych Meds
As PMHNPs, our medication choices shape how patients experience the world. Understanding neurotransmission rules isn't just theoretical—it can improve safety, reduce side effects, and lead to better outcomes. Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers that...
Psychiatric Charting Templates That Save Time
If you're anything like me, one of the most frustrating parts of being a PMHNP is documentation. Psychiatric charting templates can make all the difference. Charting can quickly become the bane of your existence when you're juggling back-to-back patients, medication...
Clozapine Serious Side Effects Every Provider Should Know
Clozapine is one of the most effective medications for treating schizophrenia, especially in treatment-resistant cases. However, clozapine's serious side effects require vigilant monitoring to keep patients safe. Understanding these risks can help APRNs and mental...
SNRIs for Depression: A Clinician’s Guide
When it comes to treating mood disorders, SNRIs for depression offer a valuable option. While they may be overshadowed by SSRIs or newer antidepressants, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine, duloxetine, and desvenlafaxine have unique...
Claire’s depth of knowledge and personal experiences have made her an invaluable resource for our listeners. She consistently delivers practical, actionable advice that empowers mental health providers to overcome the challenges of the profession.
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