1. Role of the PMHNP in Clinical Practice

• Scope of practice: Psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, psychopharmacology management, therapy integration.

• Settings: Outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatric units, emergency departments, integrated primary care.

• Student role vs provider role: Students learn under supervision; focus on interviewing, documenting, developing differential diagnoses, and proposing—but not independently implementing—treatment plans.

  • Student Responsibilities:

    • Learn under supervision.

    • Conduct interviews and MSEs.

    • Draft documentation for preceptor review.

    • Present patients clearly and succinctly

2. Professionalism & Preceptor Expectations

• Punctuality: Arrive early, ready to review charts before patients.

• Appearance: Professional dress code (often business casual + white coat if required).

• Attitude: Be open to feedback, show initiative without overstepping.

• Communication: Ask clarifying questions, but avoid interrupting patient care flow.

• Reliability: Always follow through on assigned tasks.

3. HIPAA & Confidentiality

• HIPAA basics: Only access charts for patients you are actively involved with.

• Clinical reality: Avoid discussing patient details in hallways, elevators, or public spaces.

• Documentation security: Log off EMR when stepping away.

• Case example: A student prints patient notes and leaves them on a desk → breach of HIPAA.

4. Chart Prep & Patient Encounter Readiness

• Before seeing patient:

  • Review demographics, chief complaint, past psychiatric & medical history.

  • Look for recent labs, imaging, or ED visits.

  • Note active medications & allergies.

• Mental checklist:

  • What is the presenting issue?

  • What are my differentials?

  • What safety concerns need to be screened for?