Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | Page 5

Staying Connected: How FNU is Promoting Community During COVID-19

September 10, 2020 By Frontier Nursing University

It’s been six months since COVID-19 began to significantly impact our nation, causing people, businesses and organizations to rethink everyday operations in the interest of public safety. While the Pandemic is forcing many schools to implement online learning for the first time, Frontier Nursing University (FNU) has been operating through a distance education model for more than 30 years. However, while at-home workspaces and virtual classrooms are business as usual for FNU faculty and students, a pandemic paired with ongoing social movements were not.

As they worked to transition vital in-person programming to a digital platform, FNU leadership quickly realized that success over the next few months would take more than reworking education modules. For students, faculty, and staff to meet the same expectations of past terms, FNU needed to expand their Culture of Caring by embracing their community through compassion, respect, and understanding.

As a University with an excellent psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner program, FNU is aware of how important it is to stay connected and have a healthy support system as our country works through this crisis. To help with this process, FNU has launched a series of new virtual engagement opportunities for faculty, staff and students to further strengthen the mental health of the Frontier community.

Below are some new practices that have been incredibly helpful in navigating the past several months in helping this community to stay encouraged, focused and energized:

Building a Home Base

As the threat of the Pandemic spread, FNU leadership quickly created a COVID-19 updates page on their website as a resource for the Frontier community. On the COVID-19 page are links to the most current information on state and national statistics, stories about our alumni out on the frontlines, and videos and information concerning self-care and mental health.

In an introductory video on our COVID-19 page, FNU President Dr. Susan Stone reaches out to students, faculty, and staff, with an encouraging message, setting an example of unity that reflects the FNU mission:

“Even as we have responded to social distancing, we have not lost our sense of community, team-work, and caring for one another. In these difficult times, it is comforting and inspiring to see how we have all banded together and supported one another facing every question and challenge with ingenuity and creativity…Thank you for your support and the important roles that each of you plays in the FNU community…Stay strong during this difficult time, and please reach out to us if there is anything that we can do to support you.”

Focusing on Self-Care

FNU has offered support to its community during these isolating times through various methods, including virtual lunches, mindfulness sessions and video chat support meetings. Support meetings were especially impactful, giving students, faculty and staff a safe space to openly discuss the effects of current events on their daily lives. On their COVID-19 page, FNU features a video on self-care strategies, in which Dr. Jess Calohan, chair of the psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner program, relates that “in a time of crisis and fear of the unknown, the mental health needs of individuals and groups require special attention.” FNU has been embracing this narrative for its community throughout the pandemic.

Additionally, Dr. Calohan’s video emphasizes the importance of maintaining a daily schedule, making time for yourself and finding ways to stay in touch with family, friends and co-workers. FNU acknowledges that everyone has developed additional stressors during the past several months. However, by focusing on sharing experiences and staying connected, they have maintained a foundation of community throughout this year.

Establishing a Support System

Dr. Joanne Keefe, and Bridgett Lyall, our spring term Circle of Caring winners, are excellent examples of FNU community members who have exemplified what it means to support and strengthen morale during the past few months. Both of these women have gone above and beyond to show consideration and compassion for their teams, and they have both positively impacted the culture of FNU.

Dr. Keefe, FNU’s course coordinator for epidemiology/biostatistics, leads a diverse team of five faculty members. In recent months she created a discussion board titled, ‘Self Calming and Self Care,’ where students and faculty have a safe space to gather and post inspirational poems and songs, meditation practices and share their personal experiences. Additionally, Dr. Keefe is holding weekly meetings to examine student and faculty needs, such as difficulty focusing and fears for sick family members, and discuss rising social concerns.

Lyall, FNU’s academic records officer, is another example of a staff member going above and beyond to show support and care to her coworkers. Within hours of the Kentucky governor announcing that face masks would be mandatory in public places, Lyall made a campus-wide announcement that she made face masks for her colleagues.

The FNU community is thankful to have so many members displaying a culture of caring during these challenging times. As we all continue to work through the crisis, FNU is committed to remaining aligned with the standards of excellence that have made us a safe place and a reliable support center.

We encourage you to visit our COVID-19 page to be inspired by the stories of FNU students and alumni helping during the crisis and benefit from the resources provided. We are all in this together – even from afar!

Graduate Nursing School: What Degrees Does FNU Offer?

July 16, 2020 By frontieredu

At Frontier Nursing University (FNU), it is our goal to inspire prospective nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners in need of a flexible schedule to complete their educational goals. Our specialty lies in giving our students the opportunity to work in their home and local community through web-based, distance learning. We offer a variety of programs to help you further your career to the highest level, including a Master of Science in Nursing program, a Doctor of Nursing Practice program, and Post-Graduate Certificates. As you search for a school to continue your education, be assured that our programs meet you where you are, and provide quality support throughout your healthcare education journey.

With FNU’s Master of Science Nursing (MSN) program, students have the option of becoming a Certified Nurse-Midwife, Family Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner, or Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. The programs usually begin with an on-campus experience called Frontier Bound; these sessions are currently being held virtually due to the COVID-crisis. However, we have been pleased to find our students report that they are staying connected and inspired through these virtual events and online coursework. Coursework consists of approximately 30 hours per week for part-time students, and about 40 hours per week for full-time students. Students complete the majority of the didactic courses over one to one and one-years and then become eligible for the second on-site session, Clinical Bound. Clinical Bound is a clinical skills intensive that will prepare you for the clinical practicum. Clinical Bound sessions are currently being held virtually due to the COVID-crisis.

After Clinical Bound, students begin their clinical practicum. During this time, they provide nurse practitioner or nurse-midwifery services in their home community for four to 10 months under the guidance of a master clinician preceptor. FNU students benefit greatly from having these advanced practice nurses as role models during the clinical experience. Required clinicals assist students in developing necessary skills for future success.

Once students complete all coursework, at least 675 hours of clinical work, and the final comprehensive preparatory course, they officially have an MSN in their chosen field. Additionally, for students who complete their MSN at FNU, we provide the option to expand their studies and earn a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) through successful completion of 21 additional doctoral-level credits and 500 additional clinical hours.

Recent Frontier grads have a head start, but the DNP program was not designed with only Frontier grads in mind. We provide a fully comprehensive community-based online program to pursue a Post-Master’s DNP. Earning your DNP at FNU will begin with attending DNP Bound. You can opt to complete our DNP program in either 15 or 18 months. This program consists of 30 credit hours in which you will lead a rapid cycle quality improvement initiative. These are small scope initiatives aimed to meet a need within your clinical site while acting as a service-learning opportunity. The initiative provides you with a chance to look at a community-level problem and make a change.

We are dedicated to making our DNP program one of the best of its kind. Following the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s DNP Essentials foundational competencies, and drawing on the diverse experience of our faculty, we feel that we have developed an all-inclusive program that will leave you confident and competent as a clinical practice leader.

FNU also offers several different Post-Graduate Certificates, meant for students who have completed their MSN and are already a Certified Nurse-Midwife or a Nurse Practitioner, but would like to add a specialization as a Nurse-Midwife, Family Nurse Practitioner, Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner, or a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. These programs will leave you prepared to pass your national certification exam in your chosen field and, similar to our MSN programs, completing these certifications will give you the opportunity to continue into the post-masters DNP.

FNU is committed to providing in-demand programs in an obtainable way so that you can expand the care available in your community with knowledge and confidence. If you have any questions or would like more information about any of our degrees or certifications, please visit our admissions page – we would love to talk to you!

More Topics Related to Graduate Nursing School:

Why Should I Become a Nurse-Midwife?

Should I Consider a DNP?

COVID-19 Front Lines: Kevin Scalf Provides Increased Mental Healthcare For Isolated Rural Patients

May 28, 2020 By Frontier Nursing University

The Frontier community is proud to have students and alumni serving on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the next few weeks, we are committed to sharing their stories in order to provide insight, hope and encouragement. Thank you to all the health care workers who are risking their own well-being daily to serve our nation. Click here to read more stories of courage and dedication.

Kevin Scalf, PMHNP-BC
Regional Clinical Faculty, Frontier Nursing University

During the COVID-19 pandemic, limitations have been a common storyline. Healthcare professionals have dealt with limited supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE), limited space in which to house and care for patients, insufficient testing supplies and a limited workforce.

Limitations in healthcare are not new to rural southeastern Kentucky, where the majority of counties are designated as medically underserved areas (MUAs). Despite its beauty, the region’s remote locations and rural clinics and hospitals struggle to attract primary healthcare providers from larger cities and communities. The problem is magnified by a lack of specialized healthcare providers in these rural and underserved areas. A 2018 study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found that 65 percent of non-metropolitan counties in the United States lacked a psychiatrist.

Kevin Scalf, PHMNP-BC, is a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) at Hazard Appalachian Regional Healthcare Psychiatric Center in Hazard, Ky. Originally from nearby Manchester, Ky., Scalf is also a Regional Clinical Faculty member at Frontier Nursing University (FNU). He has been a PMHNP since 2011 and a Registered Nurse for 24 years.

“I serve a population of adults that struggle with psychiatric illness in rural southeastern Kentucky,” Scalf said. “The residents of this region have limited support systems and very significant economic challenges while living with persistent mental illness. As a result of these limited support systems and economic struggles, they often find it challenging to make healthy decisions and follow up with their primary care providers on a routine basis. The healthcare gaps include a shortage of mental health providers, which is especially true for patients suffering from conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities and substance abuse.”

These issues existed even before the pandemic. Now, for many in the region, COVID-19 has added another component to their mental health struggles.

“COVID-19 has increased isolation among our population. Isolation is a risk factor for mental health destabilization,” Scalf said, noting that many patients in the area lack the mechanisms to attend virtual appointments. “Patients who suffer from anxiety and fear related to COVID-19 can sometimes be afraid to go to their primary care provider, resulting in decreased follow-up visits. This can be a significant risk factor for acute exacerbations of mental illness.”

The pandemic has altered Scalf’s daily regimen as well. Each day, before entering the hospital, all staff members go through a triage area where their temperature is taken and they are asked to disclose any symptoms associated with COVID-19. Only then are they allowed to proceed into patient care areas with hospital-approved masks.

“New patients admitted to the psychiatric hospital are placed into a centralized unit where they are closely monitored for symptoms of COVID-19,” Scalf said. “After they have been screened and assessed for a period of time, they are transferred to other appropriate units.”

Adapting to these new conditions and procedures is not easy for anyone, but Scalf credits FNU with helping to prepare him to navigate through times of change.

“FNU has given me additional education, tools, and skills that I can take into the world and use to bring about meaningful change in our region,” said Scalf, who is on track to earn his Doctorate of Nursing Practice from FNU this spring. “How do we help our patients and each other adjust to a new way of normal in our country? In moving forward, we need to come together and prepare ourselves with the fact that life may be different for a significant amount of time.”

Coming together has been part of FNU’s strategic response to the pandemic. In efforts to help ease uncertainty and anxiety, FNU has provided frequent virtual support sessions for students, faculty and staff along with regular updates about the pandemic and the university’s response.

“FNU has been very helpful in staying current on the latest emerging COVID-19 updates,” Scalf said. “FNU has offered faculty, staff and student support sessions that have helped us come together and draw strength from one another. These sessions not only demonstrate FNU’s culture of caring but also helps us to realize that social distancing does not always mean social isolation.”

The Impact Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners Can Make In Solving The Opioid Crisis

May 7, 2020 By Frontier Nursing University

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), America makes up less than five percent of the world’s population, yet we consume nearly one-third of the global supply of opioids. More often than not, this high use of opioids is an abuse of medication and street drugs rather than a healthy, prescription dose. According to the most recent information from drugabuse.gov, we are currently losing an average of 128 Americans every day from opioid overdoses. As this trend continues to devastate regions across the country, the APA‘s substance abuse page is pressing for more psychologists to become part of the solution by helping recovering patients deal with emotional trauma, and taking preventive measures, such as identifying at-risk patients, to combat the growth of this disease.

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) was founded with a vision to improve the healthcare of women and families in underserved populations. That’s why we are committed to training Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) to combat this tragic loss of life. As we continue to send healthcare professionals into areas hit hardest by this crisis, we hope you will consider joining our fight.

The Problem of Opioid Abuse and Infant Mortality in America

As the opioid crisis continues to devastate our nation, we often think of the young adults and middle-aged populations who have fallen prey to addiction. Unfortunately in doing so, we are overlooking a secondhand demographic that has also experienced significant suffering: infants.

As the Center for Disease Control explains on their page on substance abuse during pregnancy, the number of pregnant women with opioid dependency has quadrupled since 1999. As a result, the number of babies being born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), a condition where an infant shows symptoms of withdrawal as a result of the mother’s opioid dependence while pregnant, has increased at the same rate.

The most recent CDC data concludes that there is a NAS infant born every 15 minutes, adding up to the staggering number of around 32,000 babies a year. In addition to NAS, infants born to a mother with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), are prone to feeding issues, breathing difficulties, preterm birth, and low birth-rate.

Although it can be difficult to determine just how high the infant mortality rate has increased due to opioid use, we can see some definite patterns. According to a JAMA network study by Julie R Gaither PhD, MPH, RN, between 1999 and 2016, the infant mortality rate increased by 268.2 percent with 6.7 percent of all opioid deaths occurring in children ages 0-4. Similarly, Indiana, the state with the highest infant mortality rate recently conducted a study showing that 16 percent of at-risk infants had traces of opioids in their umbilical cords at birth.

The Impact of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) in Fighting the Opioid Crisis

There can be many reasons that someone may begin to suffer from OUD, although according to a March of Dimes presentation, the most common of these include: community economic disadvantage, mental health problems, relational problems, and health conditions. Although a psychologist might not be able to control what medications someone’s healthcare provider recommends, they can be aware of health and community disadvantages that can put people at high risk and be prepared to help those demographics address these issues without turning to opioids. Additionally, when there are more licensed psychologists and other mental health providers in high-risk areas to help citizens deal with mental health and relationship problems, they could play a huge role in preventing future opioid use.

In an APA article titled How Psychologists Improve Care , Harvard psychologist Kathryn McHugh, PhD, discusses the importance psychologists can make in the treatment of opioid addiction. McHugh stresses that medication can treat the physical addiction, but the mental stresses that led to the initial addiction, as well as those resulting from extensive opioid use, also need to be addressed to avoid relapse. As McHugh explains, “It’s critical for people to also have behavioral interventions as needed. You need to treat the whole person to get them well.”

How You Can Become A PMHNP Through FNU

FNU has a long history of reaching underserved communities, and right now there is a desperate need for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners throughout the country. If you are alarmed by the damage this disease is creating for individuals, families, and communities and are interested in providing relief for OUD ravished regions, consider FNU’s PMHNP program.

In an effort to meet you where you are, and reach at-risk communities faster, FNU offers two paths for achieving your PMHNP. You can apply for the PMHNP specialty track for registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree that are seeking a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or you can look into our Post-Graduate Certificate (PGC) track for Certified Nurse-Midwives and Nurse Practitioners. Both programs also give you the option to continue your studies and receive your Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Additionally, through our distance education model, your work will directly impact your community. The model allows you to complete your clinical practicum in your area, where you will study under preceptors who are well versed in the issues directly impacting your region. For more information on our PMHNP programs and the support FNU can offer you on your medical journey please visit our PMHNP page.

As the opioid crisis continues to rise throughout the country we hope that you will join us in fighting the horrors of OUD and NAS. The sooner we can get more dedicated professionals into the field treating recovering opioid users and preventing at-risk-cases, the sooner we will see a decrease in loss of life from opioid addiction and a healthier generation of infants entering our world. Together we can make a lasting impact on this crisis.

National Nurses Week Will Be Celebrated Throughout May

April 30, 2020 By Frontier Nursing University

Every year, Frontier Nursing University (FNU) participates in the American Nurses Association (ANA)’s National Nurses Week, honoring the hard work and dedication of nurses across the country.

This year, as part of the Year of the Nurse and the Midwife as appointed by the World Health Organization (WHO), the ANA is expanding National Nurses Week, traditionally celebrated from May 6 to May 12 each year, to a month-long celebration in May to expand opportunities to elevate and celebrate nursing.

The ANA could not have anticipated the significance that would be placed on nurses in our country’s current COVID-19 crisis, but the National Nurses Week expansion could not be more apropos. According to a statement from the ANA, National Nurses Month will be the perfect opportunity to honor these heroes.

Now more than ever we must support and recognize nurses who work with courage and compassion and under extremely challenging circumstances. Whether it is a national health emergency or routine daily care, nurses’ vital contributions impact the health and well-being of our communities, which is why ANA selected the theme for May as Nurses Make a Difference. To honor nurses and support the nursing profession, ANA will promote weekly themes and activities. While continued physical distancing may limit our face-to-face activities, we encourage everyone to think of creative ways to virtually engage.

Each week during National Nurses Month will celebrate a different theme:

Week 1: Self Care

May 1-9, 2020

FNU is going virtual and offering resources during the COVID-19 crisis: read more about those here. Also, psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) program director Dr. Calohan has produced videos on self-care and psychological first aid – give them a look!

Week 2: Recognition

May 10-16, 2020

Many FNU alumni have displayed tremendous bravery and represented our Culture of Caring as they fight on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. Read their stories at frontier.edu/courage.

Week 3: Professional Development

May 17-23, 2020

FNU has many opportunities for continuing education (CE) across a wide range of topics. View all your CE opportunities at frontier.edu/CE.

Week 4: Community Engagement

May 24-31, 2020

During the last week of National Nurses Month, we want to hear from you, nurse practitioners and nurse-midwives!

We are all in this fight together, yet we are all experiencing it differently. As time permits, we hope you will share your stories with us. Please message us or email us at FNUnews@frontier.edu with photos, videos and a story to share with others. We want to hear what you’re experiencing, what challenges you are facing, and what successes you are celebrating.

2020: Year of the Nurse and the Midwife

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) is proud to support and join the World Health Organization’s international campaign designating 2020 as the “Year of the Nurse and the Midwife.” In recognizing the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, FNU joins the efforts to raise awareness of healthcare shortages in the U.S. and abroad; demonstrate the need for more nurses and nurse-midwives; educate the public of the value of nurses and nurse-midwives in their communities and advocate for access to quality healthcare for every individual.

FNU Joins in 25th Annual National Public Health Week

April 6, 2020 By Frontier Nursing University

On April 6-12, 2020, Frontier Nursing University (FNU) will join with healthcare organizations across the United States to celebrate National Public Health Week, organized by the American Public Health Association (APHA). Participants will unite to start conversations and take positive steps towards improving the health of their neighbors and friends, contributing to the overall state of health of the country. The conference comes at a crucial time as public health has never been more important than during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

National Public Health Week offers a perfect opportunity to fulfill FNU’s commitment of participating in 2020’s International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife established by the World Health Organization (WHO). In recognizing the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, FNU joins the efforts to raise awareness of healthcare shortages in the U.S. and abroad; demonstrate the need for more nurses and nurse-midwives; educate the public of the value of nurses and nurse-midwives in their communities and advocate for access to quality healthcare for every individual.

Each day during National Public Health Week, the APHA will focus on a critical health topic and identify ways individuals can make a difference. Take a look at this year’s topics and click to learn more!

Monday: Mental Health — advocate for and promote emotional well-being
Tuesday: Maternal and Child Health — ensure the health of mothers and babies throughout the lifespan
Wednesday: Violence Prevention — reduce personal and community violence to improve health
Thursday: Environmental Health — help protect and maintain a healthy planet
Friday: Education — advocate for quality education and schools
Saturday: Healthy Housing — ensure access to affordable and safe housing
Sunday: Economics — advocate for economic empowerment as the key to a healthy life

The shortage of psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) is one of the most prevalent gaps in the healthcare arena today. FNU faculty member Dr. Jess Calohan, DNP, PMHNP-BC, addresses this issue in this YouTube video, What is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner? FNU offers a graduate PMHNP specialty track that can be pursued full- or part-time while completing a Master of Science in Nursing or a Post-Graduate Certificate, with the additional option of transitioning to the companion DNP via a direct admission process.

FNU is offering two opportunities to earn free continuing education (CE) credits during National Public Health Week. To earn credit, watch each session and complete its post-evaluation. Monday’s theme of Mental Health ties into Dr. Calohan’s presentation, Evidence-Based Prescribing of Practices in Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. On Tuesday, watch Maybe There is an “I” in TEAM: IPECS on the topic of Maternal and Child Health, presented by Dr. Audrey Perry, DNP, CNM, and Dr. Mark Woodland, MS, MD.

We hope you’ll join in working towards the collective goal of improving the health of our nation! To learn more about National Public Health Week, visit NPHW.org, and to read about all of FNU’s program offerings, visit Frontier.edu.

Alumni Spotlight: Certified Nurse-Midwife Jacob Mearse Uses Psychiatric-Mental Health Degree to Better Serve Women

February 27, 2020 By Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) alum Jacob Mearse, DNP, PMHNP, CNM is using his doctoral education in psychiatric-mental health to serve women in his position as a certified nurse-midwife.

As a father of seven, Jacob knew he wanted to become a nurse-midwife as soon as his first child was delivered, but his journey took many turns before then.

“At the time our first child was born, the Army had me stationed in Hawaii where I was just finishing up nursing school,” said Jacob. “We had an amazing nurse-midwife and I remember thinking, ‘That is the coolest job ever! That is what I want to do!’”

Jacob later spent time in the Navy, where he was put into a full-time doctor of nursing practice (DNP) program. He asked to study nurse-midwifery, but instead, they assigned him to the psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner program. While the program wasn’t his choice, unbeknownst to him, it later would put Jacob in a better position to serve women as a nurse-midwife.

Jacob decided to begin researching schools to become a nurse-midwife so he would be ready when his opportunity arrived. He first heard of FNU from a nurse-midwife friend who was an FNU alumna. After investigating online, he quickly decided FNU’s curriculum offerings, combined with the ability to do school while working full-time and raising seven kids, made the university a perfect fit.

The very day Jacob graduated from the University of Washington with his DNP, he applied to FNU to become a certified nurse-midwife, earning his post-graduate certificate in nurse-midwifery from FNU in 2017.

Today, Jacob is in a new position at Franciscan Women’s Health Associates, a large midwifery practice in Tacoma, Wash. He alternates between days at the clinic and 12-hour call shifts in the delivery room at St. Joseph Medical Center, the second busiest hospital in the Puget Sound area. When Jacob is at the clinic, he sees upwards of 25 patients daily for obstetric, gynecological and primary care.

According to Jacob, he has seen enormous benefits in combining his passion for nurse-midwifery with his background in psychiatric-mental health. In his new position at Franciscan Women’s Health Associates, he is often pulled into consultations with colleagues who have patients with mental health conditions.

“One of the big shortcomings in perinatal mental health is that we separate out maternity care and mental health care. A mom may come in for maternity care but have some psychiatric conditions. Oftentimes, maternity care providers are uncomfortable with mental health, or mental healthcare providers don’t know anything about pregnancy. It’s really helpful for me to be able to care for both aspects at once. I can manage psychiatric meds and do psychotherapy while also help them through their pregnancy and delivery.”

Jacob enjoys seeing patients from diverse socioeconomic situations and particularly enjoys serving the underserved.

“My favorite thing is when I’m able to help an economically disadvantaged and socially marginalized mother by giving her better care than she would get anywhere else. I love treating patients like royalty, whether or not they can pay. It feeds my soul and makes me happy every day.”

We are proud of Jacob for pursuing his dream of becoming a nurse-midwife and finding a position that allows him to fully utilize his skill set to serve women!

FNU offers a graduate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty track as well as a Nurse-Midwifery specialty track that can both be pursued full- or part-time while completing a Master of Science in Nursing or a Post-Graduate Certificate. To learn more about all of our program offerings, visit Frontier.edu.

What is a Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM)?

Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are educated in two disciplines: midwifery and nursing. They earn graduate degrees, complete a midwifery education program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME), and pass a national certification examination administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) to receive the professional designation of CNM. Certified Midwives (CMs) are educated in the discipline of midwifery. They earn graduate degrees, meet health and science education requirements, complete a midwifery education program accredited by ACME, and pass the same national certification examination as CNMs to receive the professional designation of CM.

Alumni Spotlight: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Stephanie A. Patterson Advocates for Mentally Ill Patients in Urban L.A.

February 17, 2020 By Frontier Nursing University

Frontier Nursing University (FNU) alumna Dr. Stephanie A. Patterson, DNP, PMHNP-BC, obtained her doctor of nursing practice (DNP) degree in the summer of 2019 and is making strides in the mental healthcare field. In her urban community of Los Angeles, Calif., mental illness is a widespread problem.

“In Los Angeles, there is a high need for DNP-prepared PMHNPs like me because of the pervasiveness of mental illness in the community. Current statistics show that 63 percent of adults in California with mental illness did not receive treatment during the past year,” said Stephanie.

Stephanie currently serves as an inpatient psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), where she works with mentally ill adults. Her patients are typically admitted involuntarily after presenting themselves as a danger to themselves or others. Stephanie and her team evaluate and observe patients until they are stabilized and discharged into a lower level of care.

Stephanie is a strong advocate for medication management among patients with mental illnesses, knowing what medication regimens typically work for particular diagnoses. She takes time to listen to each patient, observe for side effects of medication and educate the patient on the importance of consistent medication and follow-up appointments.

“It is important that our patients know that they can still maintain a functional life in the community, hold jobs or stay in school, etc., despite having a mental health condition. This is why patient education is so crucial,” Stephanie said.

Improving quality for better patient outcomes is one of Stephanie’s passions, which prompted her to pursue her DNP. She recently presented her final DNP project at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Forum in Orlando, Fla., highlighting a patient-centered approach to improving appointment adherence rates in the mental health arena.

“I was very excited to present my project among like-minded professionals,” said Stephanie. “It was the culmination of my education at FNU and my commitment to the underserved in mental healthcare.”

In deciding where to enroll for her DNP, Stephanie did a lot of research and settled on FNU.

“I researched FNU’s history, plus the flexibility was really important so I was still able to work while pursuing my DNP. I’m very happy with my decision.”

Stephanie was also drawn by the renown of FNU’s faculty. “Many faculty have been in the field for 30 years or more across all different regions of the country, offering a wealth of clinical expertise and institutional knowledge,” she said.

She also benefited from receiving education from both certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and nurse practitioners (NPs), which was an important opportunity.

During her DNP studies, Stephanie picked up a major tool that she has since implemented into her practice. She uses a shared decision-making aid to engage patients and takes time to explain to her patients why keeping their appointments is so important.

“The shared decision-making model isn’t used much in the mental health community, but FNU taught me to use it and it has been an effective way to provide the patient with a foundation for making decisions based on individual values, preferences and goals for treatment,” she said.

She uses the motivational interviewing strategy during her initial consultations with patients, helping them commit to making changes to improve their health and wellbeing. She has seen this method improve mental and overall health outcomes and reduce relapses.

We are proud of Stephanie for her work with the underserved mentally ill community and her commitment to quality improvement in mental healthcare. Thank you, Stephanie!