Mental Health Nurse Credentialing

1. Mental Health NurseCredentialing Marilyn Gendek RN MA DipTeach(Nsg) ONCert FRCNA MCN Australian College of Mental Health Nurses www.acmhn.org

2. The ACMHN is The peak professional nursing organisation for mental health nurses in Australia and the recognised credentialing body for specialist mental health nurses. The ACMHN works on behalf of the members to advance the quality, status and recognition of the mental health nursing profession, promote public confidence in mental health nursing, enhance the mental health of the community.

3. Mental health nursing is a specialised field of nursing practice which focuses on meeting the mental health care needs of people of all ages whose lives are affected by mental health problems. It is underpinned by a specific body of knowledge, evidence and reflexive practice. Mental health nursing should be underpinned by specialist mental health education and experience in order for nurses to be recognised as a specialist Mental Health Nurse.

4. Who and What is a Credentialed Mental Health Nurse A Credentialed Mental Health Nurse is a specialist nurse who has demonstrated the Credential for Practice Program standards set by the ACMHN in relation to education practice experience professional development, and professional integrity

5. What is the ACMHN Credential for Practice Program A program of professional self regulation for mental health nurses which has been operating in Australia for five years. The ACMHN established its Credential for Practice Program (CPP) in response to changes to nursing education and regulation policy which occurred during the 1990s.

6. ACMHN Credential for Practice Program Criteria Current license to practice as a registered nurse within Australia. Specialist/postgraduate mental health nursing qualification, or equivalent. At least 12 months experience since completing the qualification, or 3 years experience as a registered nurse working in a mental health context, some of which must have been in the last three years. Evidence of continuing professional development – education AND practice. Supported by two professional referees declaration agreeing to uphold the standards of the profession.

7. ACMHN Credential for Practice Program Value Being credentialed identifies the nurse as a specialist in mental health nursing. and indicates to employers, professional colleagues, consumers, and other stakeholders achievement of professional standards for practice in mental health. The underlying purposes of credentialing are quality practice, public protection, and professional accountability.

8. ACMHN Credential for Practice Program Process Credentialing in general is a verification process. Applications require submission of specific documents to demonstrate that criteria have been met. Applications are checked administratively first so that all requirements are in order before assessment. Assessment of applications is by peer review, that is, Credentialed Mental Health Nurses who have undertaken an induction program.

9. ACMHN Credential for Practice Program The ACMHN Credential is the only nationally consistent standard for recognition of specialist mental health nurses. It was designated the national standard for mental health nurses to participate in Medicare initiatives provided by allied health professionals, and primary mental health care programs such as the MHNIP. A continued growth in credentialing is expected with the move towards national registration.

10. Applying for a Credential College website www.acmhn.org Credentialing Pages. Download Application for Credentialing Guidelines for Credentialing Evidence Based Record (EBR) Guidelines for Referees Read through the application and guidelines. THANK YOU