Integrating the 2013 Psychiatric Mental Health NP Competencies Into Educational Programs: Where Are We Now?

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing

Background:

• The National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF) revised core competencies for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Population Focused Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs).
• PMHNP programs are integrating these updated lifespan competencies and Master's (MS)/Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) essentials into their curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on major structural and content changes in PMHNP-lifespan curricula.
• To share faculty comments on challenges and innovative strategies for curriculum integration.
• To review content, pedagogy, and evaluation methods in select PMHNP programs.

Main Methods:

• A national forum convened PMHNP program directors to discuss curriculum integration.
• Analysis of faculty feedback regarding challenges and innovative strategies.
• Review of curricular elements infused into select PMHNP programs.

Main Results:

• Significant changes in the structure and content of PMHNP-lifespan curricula were identified.
• Faculty reported challenges and shared innovative strategies for curriculum development.
• Key issues in content, pedagogy, and evaluation methods were highlighted.

Conclusions:

• The study identifies key areas for curriculum enhancement in PMHNP programs.
• Recommendations are provided for focusing attention and accelerating growth in the specialty.
• The findings support the ongoing evolution of PMHNP education to meet contemporary healthcare needs.