Government Regulatory Bodies for Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Profession Worldwide

Table of Contents | Jump Ahead

• Executive Summary
• Key Findings
• How to Use This Document
• 1. Tier A Countries (Comprehensive Coverage)
• 2. Tier B Countries (High Coverage)
• 3. Tier C Countries (Framework Coverage)
• 4. Summary Analysis
• Conclusion
• Sources

Executive Summary

Key Findings

• Integrated General Nursing Regulation - Psychiatric nursing as a field/specialty within general nursing registration (UK, Ireland, Singapore, Hong Kong)
• Separate RPN Credential - Distinct Registered Psychiatric Nurse profession regulated separately (Canada: 4 western provinces + territories)
• Post-Registration Specialization - Psychiatric nursing as advanced qualification after general nursing registration (South Africa, India, Australia)
• Unified Nursing Registration - No separate psychiatric designation, psychiatric mental health as practice area (USA, New Zealand, most European countries)

Coverage:

• Tier A Countries (Complete): 6/6 (100%) - USA, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ, Ireland
• Tier B Countries (Substantial): 7/17 (41%) - Singapore, South Africa, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Hong Kong, Japan
• Tier C Countries (Basic): 3/10 (30%) - India, Italy, Brazil

Critical Distinctions Documented:

• General RN registration vs. psychiatric specialty credentials
• Psychiatric nurse vs. psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner roles
• Protected titles and prescribing authority by jurisdiction
• Advanced practice psychiatric nursing frameworks

How to Use This Document

Entry Structure:

• Official regulatory body name and type (⭐⭐⭐ Government / ⭐⭐ Professional Association)
• Protected titles and registration types
• Psychiatric/mental health nursing specialty credentials
• Governing legislation
• Advanced practice roles and prescribing rights
• Registration requirements
• Confidence rating (⭐⭐⭐ High / ⭐⭐ Medium / ⭐ Low)

Abbreviations:

• RN = Registered Nurse
• RPN = Registered Psychiatric Nurse
• PMHNP = Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• PMH-BC = Psychiatric-Mental Health Board Certified
• APRN = Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
• EN = Enrolled Nurse
• NP = Nurse Practitioner

1. Tier A Countries (Comprehensive Coverage)

Region 1: North America

1.1. UNITED STATES

National Coordinating Body: National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN)

Type: ⭐⭐⭐ Government Coordination Body (coordinates 60 state/territorial boards)

Scope: National coordination; regulation at state level

Website: https://www.ncsbn.org/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Regulatory Structure

State-Level Regulation:

• Nursing practice is regulated by individual State Boards of Nursing (60 jurisdictions)
• Each state has independent authority over RN and APRN licensing
• NCSBN provides coordination, NCLEX examinations, and model regulations

Protected Titles (State-Level):

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Clinical Nurse Specialist - Psychiatric Mental Health (CNS-PMH)

Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Specialisation

General Psychiatric Nursing:

• No separate "psychiatric nurse" credential at state level
• RNs may practice in psychiatric-mental health settings with basic RN license
• Many RNs pursue voluntary board certification

Advanced Practice Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing: The APRN Consensus Model recognises four APRN roles, including:

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• Population foci: Adult-Gerontology or Across the Lifespan
• Requires graduate education (Master's or DNP)
• Board certification required for state licensure
• Prescribing authority varies by state

State Practice Authority (PMHNPs):

• Full Practice Authority: 26+ states (PMHNPs practice independently)
• Reduced Practice: Some states (collaborative agreement required)
• Restricted Practice: Some states (physician supervision required)

Certification Bodies

American Nurses Credentialing Centre (ANCC) Type: ⭐⭐ Professional Certification Body

Website: https://www.nursingworld.org/

Role: National voluntary certification (not licensure)

Certifications Offered:

1. Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification (PMH-BC™)

• Credential: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse – Board Certified (PMH-BC)
• Eligibility:
  • Current RN license
  • 2 years full-time RN practice (equivalent)
  • 2,000 hours clinical practice in psychiatric-mental health nursing (within 3 years)
  • 30 hours continuing education in psychiatric-mental health nursing (within 3 years)
• Examination: 150 questions (125 scored, 25 pretest), 3 hours, computer-based
• Validity: 5 years
• Pass Rate (2024): 83%
• Fees: $295-$395 initial; $250-$375 renewal
• Scope: RN-level psychiatric-mental health nursing practice

2. Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification (PMHNP-BC™)

• Credential: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Board Certified (PMHNP-BC)
• Population Focus: Across the Lifespan
• Eligibility:
  • Current RN license
  • Graduate degree in psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner
  • Clinical training hours as per program accreditation
• Examination: Computer-based competency examination
• Validity: 5 years
• Fees: $295-$395 initial; $275-$375 renewal
• Scope: Advanced practice psychiatric-mental health care including diagnosis, treatment, prescribing (per state law)
• Accreditation: ABSNC, NCCA accredited

Alternative Certification: AANPCB (American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board) also offers PMHNP-C certification

Governing Legislation

• Federal Level: No federal nursing practice act
• State Level: Each state has Nurse Practice Act (NPA) and Board of Nursing Rules/Regulations
• APRN Regulation: Varies by state; APRN Consensus Model provides framework

Prescribing Rights

PMHNPs:

• Authority varies by state (full, reduced, or restricted practice)
• Full practice states: Independent prescribing including controlled substances (per DEA registration)
• Reduced/restricted states: Collaborative agreement or supervision required
• Must obtain state APRN license and DEA number for controlled substances

1.2. CANADA

National Coordinating Body: Canadian Nurses Association (CNA)

Type: ⭐⭐ Professional Association (not regulatory)

Scope: National coordination; regulation at provincial/territorial level Website: https://www.cna-aiic.ca/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Regulatory Structure

Provincial/Territorial Regulation:

• Nursing is regulated independently by each province/territory
• 13 provinces/territories have separate regulatory bodies
• Three models exist:

• Single College Model (BC, Ontario, Nova Scotia): All nurses regulated by one college
• Multiple College Model (Other provinces): Separate colleges for RN/NP, LPN, and RPN
• Government Regulation (Some territories for LPNs)

Key Distinction: Canada uniquely recognises Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) as a distinct nursing profession in western provinces and territories.

Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs)

National Body: Registered Psychiatric Nurse Regulators of Canada (RPNRC)

Type: ⭐⭐⭐ Government Regulatory Coordination (umbrella for provincial RPN regulators)

Website: https://www.rpnrc.ca/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Jurisdictions Regulating RPNs:

• British Columbia - BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
• Alberta - College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta (CRPNA)
• Saskatchewan - Registered Psychiatric Nurses Association of Saskatchewan (RPNAS)
• Manitoba - College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Manitoba (CRPNM)
• Yukon - Yukon Department of Community Services
• Northwest Territories & Nunavut - Government regulation

Protected Title: Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN)

Scope of Practice: RPNs are healthcare professionals concerned with health, especially mental health, of individuals, families, groups, and communities. They collaborate with Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Practical Nurses, and other mental health service providers across various practice settings.

Education Requirements:

• Complete one of 8 approved psychiatric nursing programs in Canada
• Typically baccalaureate (B.Sc.P.N. or BPN) or 3-year diploma in psychiatric nursing
• Educational Focus: Mental health, addictions, advanced therapeutic relationships, communication (distinct from general nursing programs)
• Minimum education includes: biological/physical sciences, behavioural/social sciences, humanities, ethics, research

Approved Programs (6 institutions):

• Brandon University - B.Sc.P.N. & Master of Psychiatric Nursing (MPN, since 2011)
• Douglas College - Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing
• MacEwan University - Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing & Diploma Program
• Kwantlen Polytechnic University - Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic - Diploma & Bachelor of Psychiatric Nursing
• Stenberg College - Regional Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing

Registration Requirements:

• Complete approved psychiatric nursing program
• Pass Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination (RPNCE)
• Computer-based test (CBT) since May 2022
• Tests entry-level competence and safety to practice
• Meet specific provincial regulatory body requirements

Entry-Level Competencies:

• National Entry-Level Competencies for Registered Psychiatric Nurses established
• Updated June 2025 (most recent version)
• Prepares graduates to meet mental health and addictions care needs

Governing Legislation:

• Provincial and territorial legislation mandates regulatory bodies
• Each province has specific Registered Psychiatric Nurses Act or equivalent

Registered Nurses (Psychiatric Mental Health)

In Non-RPN Provinces (Ontario, Quebec, Atlantic provinces):

• Psychiatric nursing is NOT a separate credential
• Registered Nurses (RNs) practice in psychiatric settings with general RN license
• Post-registration education available (e.g., post-graduate diplomas in mental health nursing)

Example - Ontario:

• Regulatory Body: College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)
• Position: Does not regulate psychiatric nursing as separate credential
• RNs and RPNs from western provinces must complete general nursing bridging program to register in Ontario as RN

Provincial/Territorial Nursing Regulators:

Advanced Practice Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing

Nurse Practitioners (NPs):

• Regulated at provincial/territorial level
• Some provinces recognise Psychiatric-Mental Health NP specialty
• Prescribing authority varies by province (most have independent prescribing)
• Graduate education (Master's level) required

Region 2: United Kingdom & Ireland

2.1. UNITED KINGDOM

Regulatory Body: Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)

Type: ⭐⭐⭐ Government Regulatory Body

Scope: National (UK-wide: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland) Website: https://www.nmc.org.uk/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Nurse
• Registered Nurse
• Midwife
• Nursing Associate (England only)

NMC Register Structure

The NMC register is divided into parts and sub-parts:

Nurses Part of the Register - Sub Part 1 (Level 1):

• RN1/RNA: Adult Nurse, Level 1
• RN3/RNMH: Mental Health Nurse, Level 1 ⭐
• RN5/RNLD: Learning Disabilities Nurse, Level 1
• RN8/RNC: Children's Nurse, Level 1

Mental Health Nurse as a Field: In the UK, mental health nursing is one of four "fields" or "branches" of nursing registration. Nurses qualify directly in one of these fields through pre-registration education.

Registration Requirements - Mental Health Nursing

Pre-Registration Education:

• Bachelor's degree (BSc Nursing - Mental Health) or equivalent
• Approved by NMC
• Typically 3 years full-time
• Some universities offer integrated Master's degrees (4 years) or dual-field registration programs (e.g., Adult & Mental Health)

Registration Process:

• Complete NMC-approved mental health nursing programme
• Apply for registration with NMC
• Registration code: RN3 or RNMH (Mental Health Nurse, Level 1)

Continuing Requirements:

• Revalidation every 3 years
• Continuing professional development (CPD)
• Practice hours requirements

Specialist Practice Qualifications (Recordable)

Post-registration specialist qualifications recordable with NMC:

• SPMH: Specialist Practitioner: Mental Health
• SCMH: Specialist Practitioner: Community Mental Health Nursing

These are additional qualifications beyond initial registration, typically at postgraduate level.

Dual Registration

Some universities offer programmes enabling dual registration:

• Adult & Mental Health Nurse (e.g., Master of Nursing dual award)
• Allows registration in both RN1 (Adult) and RN3 (Mental Health) fields
• Longer duration (typically 4 years for integrated Master's)

Advanced Practice - Mental Health

Mental Health Nurse Prescribers: Registered mental health nurses can undertake additional training to become:

• V100/V150: Community Practitioner Nurse Prescriber
• V200: Nurse Independent Prescriber (extended formulary)
• V300: Nurse Independent/Supplementary Prescriber

Prescribing qualifications are recordable with NMC and permit prescribing of medications per qualification scope.

Advanced Clinical Practice: Mental health nurses may progress to advanced roles including:

• Advanced Nurse Practitioner (Mental Health)
• Mental Health Nurse Consultant
• Require further education and clinical experience

Governing Legislation

• Nursing and Midwifery Order 2001 (primary legislation establishing NMC)
• NMC Code of Conduct
• Various statutory instruments

Scope of Practice

Mental health nurses work across:

• Inpatient psychiatric units
• Community mental health teams
• Crisis resolution teams
• Forensic mental health services
• Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS)
• Primary care
• Private sector

2.2. IRELAND

Regulatory Body: Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI)

Type: ⭐⭐⭐ Government Regulatory Body

Scope: National (Republic of Ireland)

Website: https://www.nmbi.ie/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Registered Nurse
• Registered Midwife

Register Structure

The Register of Nurses and Midwives is divided into divisions:

• General Nursing
• Psychiatric (Mental Health) Nursing ⭐
• Intellectual Disability Nursing
• Children's Nursing
• Midwifery

Registration Status:

• More than 92,000 nurses and midwives registered with NMBI
• Illegal to practice without registration
• Annual renewal required

Psychiatric Nursing Registration

Entry Routes:

1. Direct Entry - Pre-Registration Programme:

• Bachelor's degree in Psychiatric Nursing from NMBI-approved Irish institution
• Typically 4 years
• Graduates apply to join Psychiatric Nursing division of the register

2. Post-Registration Route (for existing RNs):

• Psychiatric Nurse Post-Registration Programme
• Academic Level: Higher Diploma (Level 8 on National Framework of Qualifications)
• Education bodies may determine higher academic level where appropriate

Post-Registration Programme Standards:

The NMBI sets standards and requirements for psychiatric nurse post-registration programmes covering:

• Minimum entry requirements
• Learning outcomes
• Syllabus/indicative content
• Theoretical and clinical instruction

Purpose: Provide guidance to education providers and healthcare institutions for development, delivery, and evaluation of psychiatric nurse post-registration programmes.

Multiple Division Registration

Nurses may be registered in multiple divisions if they:

• Complete appropriate education programmes for each division
• Meet NMBI requirements
• Apply to add new division to existing registration

Example: A general nurse can complete post-registration psychiatric nursing programme to add psychiatric nursing division

Post-Registration Education

Community Mental Health Nursing:

• Post-graduate programmes available (e.g., St Angela's College Sligo - MHSc, Postgraduate Diploma)
• Prepares nurses for specialist community mental health practice

Advanced Practice

Prescribers Division: Nurses with appropriate education can apply to join the Prescribers division of the register

Advanced Practitioners Division: Nurses meeting advanced practice criteria can apply to join this division

Governing Legislation

• Nurses and Midwives Act 2011 (amended)
• NMBI Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics
• Various statutory instruments and practice standards

Scope of Practice

Psychiatric nurses in Ireland work across:

• Acute psychiatric inpatient units
• Community mental health teams
• Psychiatric rehabilitation services
• Forensic psychiatric services
• Child and adolescent mental health services
• Addiction services
• Primary care

Region 3: Oceania

3.1. AUSTRALIA

Regulatory Body: Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA)

Operating Under: Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

Type: ⭐⭐⭐ Government Regulatory Body

Scope: National (all Australian states and territories)

Website: https://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Enrolled Nurse (EN)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Registration Structure

General Registration: Australia does not have a separate "psychiatric nurse" registration category. Mental health nursing is a specialty area within general nursing registration.

Registration Types:

1. Registered Nurse - General registration (includes all fields of practice)
2. Enrolled Nurse - Second-level nursing registration
3. Nurse Practitioner - Endorsed registration for advanced practice

Endorsements: Nurse Practitioners may have area of practice endorsement, though not typically specialty-specific in registration.

Mental Health Nursing Specialisation

Education Pathway:

• RN with general registration works in mental health settings
• Post-graduate education in mental health nursing available
• No separate registration required

Post-Graduate Qualifications:

• Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing
• Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing
• Master of Mental Health Nursing

Mental Health Nurse Credentialing

Australian College of Mental Health Nurses (ACMHN)

Type: ⭐⭐ Professional Association (Credentialing Authority)

Website: https://acmhn.org/

Role: Provides voluntary credentialing for specialist mental health nurses

ACMHN Credential:

• Status: Nationally consistent standard for recognizing specialist mental health nurses
• Protected Title: Credentialed Mental Health Nurse
• Purpose: Ensures recognition of qualifications, skills, expertise, and experience of nurses practicing as specialist mental health nurses
• Benefit: Competitive advantage in employment applicationsApplication Process:
• Online submission through Credentialing for Nurses (C4N) portal
• Peer-reviewed by a Credentialed Mental Health Nurse
• Processed by ACMHN

Credentialing Levels:

• Provisional Credentialing - For nurses working toward full credentialing
• Credentialing - Full credential for specialist mental health nurses

Re-Credentialing: Required when current credential expires

Relationship with NMBA:

• ACMHN credentialing is voluntary and additional to mandatory NMBA registration
• Not a regulatory requirement
• Recognized by employers and healthcare systems as specialist recognition

Internationally Qualified Mental Health Nurses

Special Pathway: NMBA recognizes that internationally qualified nurses with sole qualifications in mental health, disability, or paediatric nursing require specific assessment pathways for registration as Registered Nurse in Australia.

Governing Legislation

• Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (enacted in each state/territory)
• NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice
• Various professional practice standards

Prescribing Rights

Endorsed Nurse Practitioners:

• Mental Health Nurse Practitioners with NP endorsement
• May prescribe medications (including scheduled medicines) per their scope
• Requires completion of approved NP programme and application for endorsement

RNs (non-NP):

• No independent prescribing authority
• May administer medications under authority of medical practitioner

Scope of Practice

Mental health nurses work across:

• Public and private psychiatric hospitals
• Community mental health services
• Assertive outreach teams
• Forensic mental health services
• Drug and alcohol services
• Emergency departments
• Primary care
• Private practice (for NPs)

3.2. NEW ZEALAND

Regulatory Body: Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) / Te Kaunihera Tapuhi o Aotearoa

Type: ⭐⭐⭐ Government Regulatory Body

Scope: National

Website: https://www.nursingcouncil.org.nz/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Enrolled Nurse
• Registered Nurse
• Nurse Practitioner

Registration Structure

Scopes of Practice:

1. Enrolled Nurse - Entry-level nursing practice
2. Registered Nurse - General nursing practice
3. Nurse Practitioner - Advanced nursing practice

New Zealand does not have a separate registration category for "mental health nurse" or "psychiatric nurse."

Mental Health Nursing as Specialty

Recognition:

• Mental health and addiction nursing is recognised as a specialty area or area of experience
• No separate registration or scope of practice specific to mental health
• RNs practice in mental health settings with general RN registration

Demand:

• Current demand for internationally qualified nurses with mental health and addiction experience
• Identified as priority area in New Zealand healthcare workforce planning

Education and Competence

Pre-Registration Education:

• Bachelor of Nursing or equivalent
• Includes mental health nursing content but not as exclusive focus

Post-Registration Education:

• Postgraduate qualifications in mental health nursing available
• Professional development programmes specific to mental health practice

Competence Standards:

• Scopes of practice and standards of competence for nurses (2025 edition)
• Applies to all registered nurses regardless of specialty area

Continuing Competence Requirements

Annual Practising Certificate (APC):

• Mandatory for all practising nurses
• Renewal requires demonstration of continuing competence
• Recertification audits conducted

Professional Development:

• Professional Development Recognition Programmes (PDRPs)
• Often relate to advanced or specialty practice including mental health

Advanced Practice - Mental Health

Nurse Practitioners:

• Highest level of nursing practice in New Zealand
• Mental health nurse practitioners practice in psychiatric-mental health settings
• Prescribing authority for NPs (currently under consultation and review)

Prescribing Scopes:

• RN prescribing scope (under consultation)
• NP prescribing scope (under review)
• Mental health NPs may prescribe within authorised scope

Governing Legislation

• Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 (HPCAA)
• NCNZ Code of Conduct
• Various professional standards

Scope of Practice

Mental health nurses work across:

• District Health Board (DHB) mental health services
• Community mental health teams
• Acute psychiatric inpatient units
• Forensic mental health services
• Addiction services
• Kaupapa Māori mental health services
• Private mental health services
• Primary care

2. Tier B Countries (High Coverage)

Region 4: Asia-Pacific

4.1. SINGAPORE

Regulatory Body: Singapore Nursing Board (SNB)

Operating Under: Ministry of Health, Singapore

Type: ⭐⭐⭐ Government Regulatory Body

Scope: National

Website: https://www.snb.gov.sg/

Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐

Protected Titles

• Registered Nurse
• Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) ⭐
• Registered Midwife
• Enrolled Nurse

Registration Types

Singapore uniquely maintains a separate register for psychiatric nurses:

Types of Register/Roll:

• Registered Nurse - General nursing
• Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) - Psychiatric/mental health nursing ⭐
• Registered Midwife - Midwifery
• Enrolled Nurse - Entry-level nursing

Registration as Registered Nurse (Psychiatric)

Pre-Registration Education:

• Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Mental Health) from Nanyang Polytechnic
• SNB-accredited programme
• Post-registration pathway (requires existing general RN registration)

Application Requirements:

1. Passport-size photograph
2. NRIC or Student Pass and Passport
3. Official transcript showing completion of SNB-accredited programme

Application Timeline:

• Must apply within 5 years of completing nursing programme
• Graduates applying from 4th year must pass 6-month Competency Assessment (CA) in inpatient settings before 5th year
• Failure to meet 5-year deadline requires Return-to-Nursing Programme

Core Competencies

Core Competencies of Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) (RNP): A Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) is a healthcare provider who has completed a professional post-registration mental health nursing programme accredited by SNB. SNB has established core competencies and generic skills for RNPs (documented as of 2023).

##### Continuing Requirements

Practising Certificate (PC):

• Valid PC required to practice nursing/midwifery
• Annual renewal
• Practicing without valid PC is offense under Nurses and Midwives Act 1999, Section 26(1)

Fitness to Practise:

• SNB provides advisory guidelines ensuring RNs/ENs are safe and fit to practice
• Standards apply to all nurses including RN(P)

##### Prescribing Rights

Information on prescribing authority for psychiatric nurses not detailed in available sources; typically would be specified in scope of practice documents.

##### Governing Legislation

• Nurses and Midwives Act 1999 (primary legislation)
• SNB regulations and practice standards

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• SNB Local Graduates Registration: https://www.snb.gov.sg/for-professionals/becoming-a-nurse-or-midwife/apply-for-registration-enrolment/local-graduates/ (Verified: 2025-10-20)
• Core Competencies of RNP (PDF, 2023)

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐ High – Information verified from official SNB sources

Note: Singapore is one of the few countries maintaining a distinct Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) registration separate from general nursing registration.

4.2. HONG KONG

##### Protected Titles

• Registered Nurse
• Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) ⭐
• Enrolled Nurse
• Enrolled Nurse (Psychiatric) ⭐
• Registered Nurse (Sick Children)

##### Registration Structure

Hong Kong maintains separate psychiatric nursing registers:

Registration Categories: 1. General Nursing:

• Registered Nurse (General)
• Enrolled Nurse (General)

2. Psychiatric Nursing: ⭐

• Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) - Professional-level psychiatric nursing
• Enrolled Nurse (Psychiatric) - Entry-level psychiatric nursing

##### Licensing Examination

Nursing Council Licensing Examination - Psychiatric:

For Registration (RN Psychiatric):

• Written Part: March (annual)
• Practical Part: June (annual)
• Examination Fee: HK$860
• Format: Computer-based and practical assessment

For Enrolment (EN Psychiatric):

• Written Part: March (annual)
• Practical Part: August/September (annual)
• Examination Fee: HK$920

Requirements:

• No exemption for any part
• Must pass written part before taking practical part
• Must pass both parts before registration/enrolment

Time Limits:

• First attempt: Within 2 years from Council's initial approval
• Re-sit (failed part): Within 1 year from last attempt
• Re-sit both parts: If practical not passed within 3 years of passing written, must re-sit both
• After 3 failures: Special permission from Council required for further attempts

##### Registration Requirements - RN (Psychiatric)

Pre-Qualification:

• Complete at least 3 years psychiatric nursing training for registration
• Training must be from recognized institution

Alternative Pathways:

• Special Registration/Enrolment (Psychiatric) for non-locally trained nurses
• Must be of good character and professional conduct
• Must have completed pre-qualification psychiatric nursing training
• Subject to additional assessment

##### Post-Registration Education

Post-Registration Certificate Course in Community Psychiatric Nursing:

• Available for Registered Nurses (Psychiatric)
• Develops proficiency in community mental health services

Higher Diploma in Mental Health Nursing:

• For Enrolled Nurses (Psychiatric) seeking advancement
• Leads toward RN (Psychiatric) qualification

##### Prescribing Rights

Information on prescribing authority not specified in available sources; typically detailed in scope of practice regulations.

##### Governing Legislation

• Nurses Registration Ordinance, Cap. 164 (primary legislation)
• NCHK regulations and codes of practice

##### Scope of Practice

Psychiatric nurses work across:

• Hospital Authority psychiatric hospitals and units
• Community psychiatric nursing services
• Forensic psychiatric services
• Substance abuse services
• Psychiatric day hospitals
• Private psychiatric services

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• NCHK Licensing Examination (Psychiatric): https://www.nchk.org.hk/en/nursing_council_licensing_examination/general_information/application_psychiatric.html (Verified: 2025-10-20)
• Nurses Registration Ordinance Cap. 164

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐ High – Information verified from official NCHK sources

Note: Hong Kong maintains one of the most distinct psychiatric nursing registration systems, with both professional (RN) and entry-level (EN) psychiatric nursing categories separate from general nursing.

4.3. JAPAN

##### Protected Titles (Nursing Professions)

Japan recognizes four types of nurses under the Act on Public Health Nurses, Midwives, and Nurses:

• Public Health Nurse (Hokenshi)
• Midwife (Josanshi)
• Registered Nurse (Kangoshi)
• Assistant Nurse (Junkangofu)

##### Psychiatric Nursing in Japan

Regulatory Structure:

• No separate "psychiatric nurse" registration in Japan
• Psychiatric mental health nursing is a specialty area within general nursing practice
• Registered Nurses practice in psychiatric settings with general RN license

Professional Specialty Organization:

• Japan Academy of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing (JAPMHN)
• Advances mental health nursing science
• Fosters knowledge exchange
• Contributes to mental health and well-being
• Not a regulatory body

##### Registration Requirements

To Become a Registered Nurse:

1. Complete basic nursing education (3-4 years)
2. Pass the national public health nurse, midwife, or nurse examination
3. Register with the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

For Psychiatric Nursing Practice:

• General RN license sufficient
• Specialized education and training in psychiatric nursing available but not legally required for practice
• Professional development in psychiatric nursing encouraged

##### Psychiatric Home-Visit Nursing

Japan has developed psychiatric home-visit nursing services:

• Provided by Registered Nurses with psychiatric nursing experience
• Supports mental health in community settings
• Faces difficulties in care delivery and assessment (subject of ongoing development)

##### Prescribing Rights

Registered Nurses in Japan do not have independent prescribing authority. Prescribing is reserved for licensed physicians.

##### Governing Legislation

• Act on Public Health Nurses, Midwives, and Nurses (enacted over 70 years ago, with amendments)
• Various Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare regulations

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• Japan Academy of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing: https://japmhn.jp/ (Verified: 2025-10-20)
• "Nursing in Japan" publication (Japan Nursing Association)
• Research articles on psychiatric home-visit nursing in Japan

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐ Medium – Information verified from professional association and academic sources; direct government regulatory documentation in English limited

Note: Japan regulates nursing at the general license level with psychiatric nursing as a clinical specialty, not a separate credential.

Region 5: Africa

5.1. SOUTH AFRICA

##### Protected Titles

• Registered Nurse
• Registered Psychiatric Nurse ⭐
• Enrolled Nurse
• Enrolled Nursing Auxiliary

##### Registration Categories - Psychiatric Nursing

South Africa maintains a separate registration category for psychiatric nurses:

1. Registered Psychiatric Nurse - Professional psychiatric nursing practice
2. General Nurse - General nursing practice

Nurses may hold registration in multiple categories if qualified.

##### Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing

Regulation: R. 880 (as amended) Title: Regulations for the Course for the Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing for Registration as a Psychiatric Nurse

Course Structure:

Duration:

• Standard Course: 3 years full-time
• Exemptions:
• Registered General Nurse: 1-year course
• Registered General Nurse with university degree (2+ courses in sociology/psychology): 9-month course

Clinical Instruction Hours:

• Minimum Total: 3,160 hours
• First Year Minimum: 500 hours
• Breakdown by Area:
• Therapy for mentally subnormal: 320 hours
• Psychiatric therapy (admission, neuroses): 480 hours
• Psychiatric therapy (long-term, security): 640 hours
• Psychiatric therapy (children/adolescents): 160 hours
• Psychiatric therapy (geriatric): 160 hours
• Units for physically ill: 160 hours
• Community/rehabilitative units: 480 hours
• Occupational/recreational therapy: 160 hours
• General nursing (surgical): 160 hours
• Casualty department: 160 hours
• Preventive/promotive health care & family planning: 160 hours
• Night Duty: At least 1/12 and not more than 1/4 of prescribed course period

Curriculum Subjects (by Year):

First Year:

• Psychiatric Nursing Science and Art I and Clinical Practica I
• Ethos of Nursing
• Introduction to Microbiology, Parasitology and Pharmacology
• Anatomy and Applied Medical Biophysics

Second Year:

• Psychiatric Nursing Science and Art II and Clinical Practica II
• Physiology and Applied Chemistry
• Microbiology, Parasitology, Pathology and Pharmacology

Third Year:

• Psychiatric Nursing Science and Art III and Clinical Practica III
• Social Sciences, Social Care and Mental Health Care
• Preventive and Promotive Health Care and Family Planning and Practica

##### Admission Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

• Standard ten certificate or equivalent
• Proof of current registration as nurse or midwife (maintained throughout course)
• OR proof of current enrolment as nurse (if obtained ≤5.5 years after regulation publication)

##### Examinations

Final Examination:

• Three 3-hour papers in Psychiatric Nursing Science and Art
• Practical portion in Clinical Practica

Passing Marks:

• Standard pass: ≥50% aggregate in subject
• Distinction: ≥75% aggregate in subject
• Honours: ≥75% aggregate for final examination, provided ≥65% in each subject

Examination Schedule:

• First year exams: February, June, October
• Second year exams: January, May, September
• Final exams: February, June, October

Re-Examination:

• Allowed for failed subjects (unless first failure <40%)
• Must re-examine within one year
• Second failure requires 3 months additional training
• Third failure requires special SANC permission

Examination Fees:

• 3-hour paper: R15
• 2-hour paper: R10
• Late application: Additional R15

##### School Approval Requirements

SANC Requirements for Approved Schools:

• Organizational structure satisfactory to SANC
• Adequate facilities for teaching and clinical practica
• Person in charge: Registered psychiatric nurse with SANC-registered qualifications in nursing education and administration
• Patient Availability:
• Daily average: 300 patients
• Psychiatric patients minimum: 180
• Mentally subnormal patients minimum: 60
• Satisfactory psychiatric community service
• Satisfactory preventive/promotive health care practica

##### Registration Process

Upon successful completion:

• School lodges notice and record with SANC
• Student registered as psychiatric nurse
• No fee for registration after course completion

##### SANC Regulatory Functions

SANC regulates psychiatric nursing through:

• Approving regulations (R. 880)
• Approving and monitoring nursing schools
• Setting qualification standards
• Managing student registration and records
• Prescribing national curriculum
• Specifying clinical instruction requirements
• Granting exemptions
• Administering examinations
• Maintaining registers of qualified psychiatric nurses
• Ensuring Nursing Act compliance

##### Scope of Practice

Psychiatric nurses' activities include:

• Psychiatric nursing science and art
• Ethical nursing practice
• Nursing law application and medico-legal risk management
• Holistic patient care (social, psychological, physical aspects)
• Preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative interventions
• Pharmacology and medical sciences application
• Therapy for various patient populations (mentally subnormal, admission/neuroses, long-term/security, children/adolescents, geriatric, physically ill)
• Community and rehabilitative mental health services
• Occupational and recreational therapy
• General nursing skills
• Preventive/promotive health care including family planning

##### Prescribing Rights

Information on prescribing authority for psychiatric nurses not specified in R. 880; would be detailed in scope of practice regulations.

##### Governing Legislation

• Nursing Act (primary legislation)
• R. 880 Regulations for Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing (amended multiple times: 1975-1997)
• Various SANC regulations

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• SANC R. 880: https://www.sanc.co.za/r-880/ (Verified: 2025-10-20)

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐ High – Complete regulations extracted from official SANC source

Note: South Africa maintains one of the most comprehensive and detailed regulatory frameworks for psychiatric nursing education and registration, with extensive curriculum and clinical requirements specified in regulations.

Region 6: Europe

6.1. NETHERLANDS

##### Protected Titles

The BIG-register protects 11 healthcare professions:

• Clinical Technologist
• Dentist
• Doctor
• Health Psychologist
• Midwife
• Nurse ⭐
• Pharmacist
• Physiotherapist
• Physician Assistant
• Psychotherapist
• General Educational Psychologist

##### Registration Structure

Protected Title: "Nurse" (Verpleegkundige)

BIG-Registration:

• Mandatory to work as nurse in the Netherlands
• Legal requirement to use professional title
• Public, online, accessible register
• Each registered healthcare professional has unique BIG number

##### Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing

Regulatory Approach:

• No separate "psychiatric nurse" registration in BIG-register
• Mental health nursing is a specialty area within general nursing practice
• Nurses working in psychiatric/mental health settings registered as "Nurse" with general BIG registration

Mental Health Practice:

• Nurses practicing in mental health settings must be BIG-registered
• Specialization in mental health nursing recognized by employers and healthcare institutions
• Post-qualification education in mental health nursing available but not reflected in BIG registration title

##### Registration Requirements

Dutch-Trained Nurses:

• Complete recognized nursing education programme
• Automatic eligibility for BIG registration
• Apply through BIG-register system

Foreign-Trained Nurses:

• Official recognition of qualifications required
• Sufficient command of Dutch language required
• Language proficiency examination mandatory
• Additional conditions may apply depending on country of training

Special Cases:

• EU/EEA-Trained: Recognition under EU Directive 2005/36/EC
• Non-EU/EEA-Trained: Individual assessment of qualifications
• BES Islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius, Saba):
• FM Academy diploma: Register same as Dutch graduates
• Other BES diplomas: Treated as foreign diplomas

##### Re-Registration

• Every 5 years, healthcare providers asked to apply for re-registration
• Ensures care provided by current, competent professionals

##### Mental Health Therapy

BIG-Registered Health Psychologist and Psychotherapist:

• Separate BIG professions for mental health therapy
• Only BIG-registered professionals legally recognized for reimbursable mental health care
• Psychiatric nurses providing therapy must have BIG registration as nurse; additional psychotherapy practice may require separate authorization

##### Prescribing Rights

Information on nurse prescribing authority in the Netherlands not specified in available sources; typically detailed in professional practice regulations.

##### Governing Legislation

• Wet BIG (Individual Health Care Professions Act)
• Implementing regulations from Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• BIG-register: https://english.bigregister.nl/registration (Verified: 2025-10-20)

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐⭐ High – Information verified from official BIG-register source

Note: Netherlands uses unified nursing registration approach with no specialty distinctions in the protected title or register.

6.2. SWEDEN

##### Protected Titles

• Nurse (Sjuksköterska) - Protected by law
• Specialist Nurse (Specialistsjuksköterska) - For nurses with specialist qualifications

##### Licensing System (Legitimation)

Requirement:

• License (legitimation) required to practice as nurse in Sweden
• Title "nurse" is protected by law
• Cannot work or use title without license

Licensing Authority: Socialstyrelsen

##### Registration Structure

General Nurse License:

• No separate "psychiatric nurse" license
• Mental health/psychiatric nursing is a specialist qualification within nursing

Specialist Nurse Qualifications: Nurses can apply for recognition of specialist qualification, including:

• Psychiatric/Mental Health Care Nursing
• Other specialties (exact list not detailed in available English sources)

##### Licensing Requirements

Swedish-Trained Nurses:

• Complete recognized Swedish nursing education
• Apply for license through Socialstyrelsen

Foreign-Trained Nurses (EU/EEA):

• Apply for license through Socialstyrelsen
• EU/EEA qualifications recognized under EU directives
• May require additional assessment

Foreign-Trained Nurses (Non-EU/EEA):

• Individual qualifications assessment by Socialstyrelsen
• Test of nursing competency required for non-EU graduates
• Swedish language proficiency required (typically Swedish for Academic Purposes 3 or equivalent)

##### Specialist Qualification Recognition

Specialized Nurse (Psychiatric/Mental Health):

• Post-qualification specialist education in psychiatric/mental health nursing
• Apply for specialist qualification recognition through Socialstyrelsen
• Recognition adds specialist qualification to license

Salary Recognition:

• General nurses: 27,500-46,500 SEK (salary range)
• Specialist nurses: 33,150-55,700 SEK (salary range)
• Dependent on professional background and experience

##### Prescribing Rights

Information on nurse prescribing authority in Sweden not detailed in available English sources.

##### Governing Legislation

• Swedish healthcare professional legislation (specific act names not provided in English sources)
• Socialstyrelsen regulations and standards

##### Mental Health Professional Regulation

Broader Context: According to TherapyRoute (2025), mental health professionals in Sweden are comprehensively regulated by the state. Psychiatrists are medically licensed, and various mental health professionals including psychiatric nurses operate under state-controlled licensing systems.

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• Socialstyrelsen Legitimation: https://legitimation.socialstyrelsen.se/en/ (Verified: 2025-10-20)
• TherapyRoute Mental Health Licensing Sweden Guide (2025)

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐ Medium – General structure verified from official Socialstyrelsen source; detailed psychiatric nursing specifics limited in English-language sources

Note: Sweden operates specialist qualification system within general nursing licensure; psychiatric/mental health nursing is a specialist area, not separate license.

6.3. NORWAY

##### Protected Titles

• General Nurse (Sykepleier)
• Other health personnel titles (30+ professions regulated)

##### Authorization and Licensing System

Requirement:

• Health personnel who want to practice in Norway must be registered and hold license or authorization
• Issued by Helsedirektoratet

Application Process:

• Select profession to get tailored information on:
• Required documents
• How to apply
• Processing fee
• Processing time

##### Registration Structure

General Nurse (Sykepleier):

• Unified nursing license
• No separate "psychiatric nurse" authorization
• Mental health/psychiatric nursing practiced under general nurse authorization

##### Authorization Requirements

Norwegian-Trained Nurses:

• Complete approved Norwegian nursing education
• Apply for authorization through Helsedirektoratet

Foreign-Trained Nurses:

EU/EEA-Trained:

• Recognition under EU directives
• Additional requirements may apply

UK-Trained (Post-Brexit):

• New rules effective 1 December 2023
• Treated as non-EU/EEA applicants
• Additional assessment required

Non-EU/EEA-Trained:

• Individual assessment of qualifications
• Additional requirements for applicants educated outside EU/EEA
• May need to complete compensatory measures

Special Verification - Pakistan:

• Helsedirektoratet uses Dataflow Group for verifying documents from Pakistan
• Special procedures apply (updated 27 February 2025)

##### Mental Health Services Context

Norway's Mental Health System:

• According to WHO and Cambridge journals, Norway has high psychiatrist density per capita in public health services
• Extensive community mental health services
• Mental Health Act regulates use of coercion in mental health services
• Escalation Plan for Mental Health (2023-2033) prioritizes mental health
• Mental health nurses work throughout this system under general nurse authorization

##### Prescribing Rights

Information on nurse prescribing authority in Norway not detailed in available English sources.

##### Governing Legislation

• Norwegian health personnel legislation (specific act names not provided in English sources)
• Mental Health Act (regulates coercion in mental health services)
• Helsedirektoratet regulations

##### Contact Information

• Email: godkjenning@helsedir.no
• Phone: +47 21 52 97 00
• Opening Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 09:30–11:30

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• Helsedirektoratet Authorization: https://www.helsedirektoratet.no/english/authorisation-and-license-for-health-personnel (Verified: 2025-10-20)

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐ Medium – General authorization structure verified from official source; psychiatric nursing specifics not separately detailed

Note: Norway uses unified nursing authorization with mental health nursing as a practice specialty, not a separate credential.

3. Tier C Countries (Framework Coverage)

Region 7: Asia

7.1. INDIA

##### Regulatory Structure

Two-Tier System:

1. Indian Nursing Council (INC) - National-level regulation
2. State Nursing Councils - State-level registration and regulation

Role of INC:

• Sets national standards for nursing education
• Issues regulations for nursing programmes
• Maintains oversight of nursing profession
• Coordinates with State Nursing Councils

Role of State Nursing Councils:

• Nurse registration at state level
• License to practice
• Maintaining state registers

##### Protected Titles

• Registered Nurse
• Registered Midwife
• Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM)

##### Psychiatric Nursing Specialization

Registration Category: According to TherapyRoute (2025): Psychiatric Nursing is a registration category recognized by INC and State Nursing Councils.

Educational Pathways:

1. Post-Basic Diploma in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing:

• For Registered Nurses seeking specialization
• Minimum 55% aggregate marks in basic nursing programme required
• Registered with Indian Nursing Council
• Must be registered nurse

2. Nurse Practitioner in Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing (NPMH) - Postgraduate Residency Program:

• Regulation: INC (NPMH) Postgraduate Residency Program Regulations, 2023
• Level: Postgraduate/advanced practice
• Purpose: Prepare nurse practitioners for mental health/psychiatric nursing
• Status: Regulations issued 2023 by INC

Gazette Notification: INC officially published regulations for NPMH programme in 2023, establishing framework for nurse practitioner-level psychiatric mental health nursing.

##### Governing Legislation

• Indian Nursing Council Act 1947
• INC Regulations (including NPMH Regulations 2023)
• State-level nursing acts and regulations

##### Professional Association

Indian Society of Psychiatric Nurses (ISPN India):

• Registered society for mental health nursing and allied health professionals
• Professional development and advocacy
• Not a regulatory body

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• INC Gazette Notification: https://www.indiannursingcouncil.org/gazette-notification (Verified: 2025-10-20)
• TherapyRoute Mental Health Licensing India Guide (2025)

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐ Medium – Regulations confirmed from official INC source; full regulatory details in linked PDF not extracted

Note: India recognizes psychiatric nursing specialization through post-basic diploma and new nurse practitioner regulations (2023), indicating evolving advanced practice framework for psychiatric mental health nursing.

Region 8: Europe

8.1. ITALY

##### Regulatory Structure

Provincial Orders System:

• FNOPI - National federation of provincial nursing orders (OPI - Ordine Professioni Infermieristiche)
• Provincial OPI - Each province has Order of Professional Nurses
• Mandatory Registration: Enrolment in provincial OPI register is compulsory for nursing practice

Role Division:

• Ministry of Health - Recognizes foreign qualifications, issues equivalency decrees
• Provincial OPI - Registration, maintaining registers, professional conduct oversight

##### Protected Title

• Infermiere (Nurse)

##### Registration Process

For Foreign Nurses:

1. Apply to Ministry of Health for professional qualification recognition
2. Qualification Assessment - Ministry issues decree rating qualification as equivalent
3. Language Examination - Demonstrate Italian language knowledge
4. Contact Provincial OPI - Register with OPI in province where intending to practice

EU Citizens:

• Recognition under EU Directive 2005/36/EC
• Must pass examination for Italian language knowledge
• Decree valid indefinitely once issued

Non-EU Citizens:

• Recognition under immigration legislation (Legislative Decree 286/1998)
• Language examination includes Italian language AND special provisions of Italian nursing practice
• Ministry may require "compensation measure" (additional university training)
• Decree loses effect if not registered within 2 years

Italian Citizens with Foreign Qualification:

• Apply for recognition under Directive 2005/36/EC
• Once recognized, register with provincial OPI

##### Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing

Available Information:

• Specific information on psychiatric mental health nursing specialization not detailed on FNOPI English website
• Postgraduate programmes in mental health/psychiatric nursing exist in Italian universities
• Italy launched National Mental Health Plan 2025-2030 (July 2025), indicating priority area for development

Education:

• University courses in "Nursing in Mental Health - Psychiatry" available (e.g., University of Pisa)
• Master's programmes in mental health nursing offered
• Specialty recognition process not clarified in available English sources

##### Governing Legislation

• Legislative Decree 9/11/2007, n. 206 (Implementation of EU Directive 2005/36/EC on recognition of professional qualifications)
• Legislative Decree 25/7/1998, n. 286 (Immigration and foreigner conditions - for non-EU)
• Presidential Decree 31/8/1999, n. 394 (Implementation regulations)
• Law 18/12/1980, n. 905 (Right of establishment and freedom to provide services for EU nurses)

##### National Mental Health Context

National Mental Health Plan 2025-2030: Approved by State-Regions Conference in July 2025, structured around six key areas, indicating significant national focus on mental health services development.

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• FNOPI Foreign Nurses: https://www.fnopi.it/en/for-foreign-nurses/ (Verified: 2025-10-20)
• European Health Observatory - Italy National Mental Health Plan

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐⭐ Medium – General nursing regulation verified from official source; psychiatric nursing specialization details limited in English sources

Note: Italy operates unified nursing registration through provincial orders; specific psychiatric nursing credentialing details not available in English-language official sources.

Region 9: South America

9.1. BRAZIL

##### Regulatory Structure

Two-Tier System: 1. COFEN (Conselho Federal de Enfermagem) - Federal Nursing Council

• Created by law (Law 5905/1973) by Brazilian State
• National-level nursing regulation
• Issues resolutions to regulate professional practice

2. COREN (Conselhos Regionais de Enfermagem) - Regional Nursing Councils

• State-level nursing councils
• Nurse registration
• Professional oversight

##### Nursing Categories

Brazilian nursing recognizes multiple levels (specific titles require verification from Portuguese sources):

• Enfermeiro (Registered Nurse)
• Técnico de Enfermagem (Nursing Technician)
• Auxiliar de Enfermagem (Nursing Auxiliary)

##### Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing

Current Status:

• Specific information on psychiatric nursing specialization or credentials not available in accessible English sources
• Research indicates mental health nursing consultations occur in primary health care (PHC)
• Studies examining whether Brazilian nurses have care management skills for Advanced Practice Nurses in mental health settings
• Psychiatric nursing education included in nursing programs

Research Context:

• "Teaching psychiatric and mental health nursing in Brazil" - Academic literature exists on the topic
• Mental health nursing recognized as practice area
• Specific regulatory framework for psychiatric nursing credentials requires verification from Portuguese COFEN sources

##### Recent Regulatory Developments

Mental Health Workplace Regulation (2025): Starting May 2025, Brazilian companies mandated to address employees' mental health under updated NR-1 (Norma Regulamentadora 1) occupational safety regulation. While not directly nursing regulation, indicates national priority for mental health.

##### Governing Legislation

• Law 5905/1973 - Creates COFEN and COREN
• COFEN resolutions on professional practice
• Nursing ethics committees regulations

##### Source & Verification

Sources:

• COFEN/COREN structure confirmed in academic nursing literature
• TherapyRoute Mental Health Licensing Brazil Guide (2025)
• Research articles on mental health nursing in Brazil

Verified: 2025-10-20 Confidence: ⭐ Low – General regulatory structure confirmed; specific psychiatric nursing credentialing details not verified from primary official sources; Portuguese-language sources not fully accessed

Note: Full documentation of Brazilian psychiatric nursing regulation requires access to Portuguese-language COFEN regulations and resolutions. English-language sources provide only general framework.

4. Summary Analysis

Regulatory Model Typology

Model 1: Separate Psychiatric Nurse Registration

Countries:

• Canada (4 western provinces + territories) - Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN)
• Singapore - Registered Nurse (Psychiatric)
• Hong Kong - Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) / Enrolled Nurse (Psychiatric)
• South Africa - Registered Psychiatric Nurse

Features:

• Separate education programmes (psychiatric nursing-specific or post-registration)
• Distinct scope of practice
• Protected title specific to psychiatric nursing
• Independent professional identity

Model 2: Nursing Field/Branch Registration

Countries:

• United Kingdom - Mental Health Nurse (RN3/RNMH) as field of registration
• Ireland - Psychiatric (Mental Health) Nursing as division of register

Features:

• Pre-registration education in chosen field
• Field-specific registration code
• Protected title includes field designation
• Part of overall nursing register with field distinctions

Model 3: Post-Registration Specialization

Countries:

• South Africa - Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing (post-general nursing)
• India - Post-Basic Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing + NPMH programme
• Australia - Post-graduate mental health nursing qualifications + ACMHN credentialing

Features:

• Requires prior general nursing registration
• Additional education (diploma, graduate certificate, master's)
• May or may not result in separate registration
• Often voluntary professional credentialing

Model 4: Unified Registration (Psychiatric as Practice Area)

Countries:

• United States - RN general license; psychiatric nursing as practice area; voluntary certification
• New Zealand - Psychiatric nursing as specialty within general RN registration
• Netherlands - Mental health nursing within general "Nurse" BIG registration
• Sweden - Psychiatric mental health as specialist qualification within nursing license
• Norway - Mental health nursing under general nurse authorization
• Japan - Psychiatric nursing as specialty within Registered Nurse practice
• Italy - Psychiatric nursing within general nurse registration (presumed)
• Brazil - Psychiatric nursing within general nursing registration (presumed)

Features:

• Single general nursing license/registration
• Psychiatric practice authorized under general scope
• Specialization through education, experience, employment
• May have voluntary specialist certification (e.g., ANCC in USA)

Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nursing

1. United States

• Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
• State-licensed APRN role
• Prescribing authority (varies by state)
• Graduate education required

2. Canada

• Nurse Practitioner (NP) roles may include psychiatric-mental health focus
• Provincial regulation
• Prescribing authority in most provinces

3. Australia

• Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (with NP endorsement)
• Prescribing authority
• Master's level education + endorsement process

4. New Zealand

• Nurse Practitioner scope in psychiatric-mental health
• Prescribing under review/development

5. United Kingdom

• Mental Health Nurse Prescribers (with prescribing qualifications V100/V200/V300)
• Advanced Nurse Practitioner (Mental Health)
• Nurse Consultant roles

6. Ireland

• Advanced Nurse Practitioners (potential for mental health specialization)
• Prescribers division of register

7. India

• Nurse Practitioner in Mental Health/Psychiatric Nursing (NPMH) - Postgraduate Residency Program
• New regulations (2023) establishing advanced practice framework

Protected Titles Summary

Prescribing Authority for Psychiatric Nurses

• United States - PMHNPs (varies by state: full, reduced, or restricted)
• Canada - Psychiatric NPs (most provinces have prescribing authority)
• Australia - Mental Health NPs (with endorsement)
• United Kingdom - Mental Health Nurse Prescribers (with V100/V200/V300 qualifications)
• Ireland - Nurses in Prescribers division (specialty may include mental health)
• New Zealand - Nurse Practitioners (prescribing under consultation/review)

Countries Without Direct Information:

• Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Japan, India, Italy, Brazil - Prescribing authority not specified or not applicable at general psychiatric nurse level

Education Requirements Summary

• UK, Ireland: 3-4 years Bachelor's in Mental Health Nursing (field-specific)
• Canada (RPN): 3-4 years Bachelor's or Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing
• Singapore: Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Mental Health)
• Hong Kong: 3+ years Psychiatric Nursing training
• South Africa: 3 years Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing (minimum 3,160 clinical hours)

Post-Registration Psychiatric Nursing Specialization:

• South Africa (for RNs): 1 year (RN) or 9 months (RN with degree in sociology/psychology)
• India: Post-Basic Diploma in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing
• Ireland: Higher Diploma (Level 8) in Psychiatric Nursing
• Australia: Graduate Certificate/Diploma/Master's in Mental Health Nursing

Advanced Practice (PMHNP/NP):

• United States: Master's or DNP in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
• Canada: Master's in Nursing (NP programme)
• Australia: Master's level + NP endorsement process
• India: NPMH Postgraduate Residency Program (Regulations 2023)

Conclusion

Key Findings

• Regulatory Diversity: Four distinct models identified ranging from separate psychiatric nurse registration (Canada RPNs, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa) to unified nursing registration with psychiatric nursing as practice specialty (USA, most European countries).
• Advanced Practice Evolution: Multiple countries developing psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner roles with prescribing authority (USA, Canada, Australia, UK, Ireland), representing expansion of nursing scope in mental health care.
• Protected Titles: Significant variation in protected titles and registration categories, with some countries maintaining distinct "Registered Psychiatric Nurse" or "Registered Nurse (Psychiatric)" credentials while others recognise psychiatric nursing only as specialty area.
• Education Pathways: Both pre-registration psychiatric nursing education (UK, Ireland, Canada RPNs) and post-registration specialization (South Africa, India, Australia) models documented.
• Credentialing Systems: Voluntary professional credentialing (ACMHN Australia, ANCC USA) supplements mandatory government registration in several countries.

Sources

[2] American Nurses Credentialing Center - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Certification (PMH-BC) - https://www.nursingworld.org/our-certifications/psychiatric-mental-health-nursing-certification/ - High Reliability - Official national certification body

[3] American Nurses Credentialing Center - Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certification (PMHNP-BC) - https://www.nursingworld.org/our-certifications/psychiatric-mental-health-nurse-practitioner/ - High Reliability - Official national certification body

[5] RPNRC - Becoming an RPN - https://www.rpnrc.ca/becoming-an-rpn - High Reliability - Official RPN education and registration requirements

[6] Canadian Nurses Association - Regulatory Bodies - https://www.cna-aiic.ca/en/nursing/regulated-nursing-in-canada/regulatory-bodies - High Reliability - Comprehensive list of provincial/territorial nursing regulators

[8] NMC - Joining the Register - https://www.nmc.org.uk/registration/joining-the-register/ - High Reliability - Official registration guidance

[10] NMBI - Psychiatric Nurse Post-Registration Programme Standards - https://www.nmbi.ie/Education/Standards-and-Requirements/Psychiatric-Nurse-Post-Registration - High Reliability - Official psychiatric nursing education standards

[12] Australian College of Mental Health Nurses (ACMHN) - Credentialing - https://acmhn.org/Web/Web/Credentialing/Credentialing.aspx - High Reliability - Official mental health nurse credentialing authority

[13] Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) - https://www.nursingcouncil.org.nz/ - High Reliability - Official New Zealand nursing regulatory body

[14] Singapore Nursing Board (SNB) - Local Graduates Registration - https://www.snb.gov.sg/for-professionals/becoming-a-nurse-or-midwife/apply-for-registration-enrolment/local-graduates/ - High Reliability - Official Singapore nursing regulatory body

[15] Nursing Council of Hong Kong (NCHK) - Licensing Examination (Psychiatric) - https://www.nchk.org.hk/en/nursing_council_licensing_examination/general_information/application_psychiatric.html - High Reliability - Official Hong Kong nursing regulatory authority

[16] Japan Academy of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing (JAPMHN) - https://japmhn.jp/ - Medium Reliability - Professional association for psychiatric mental health nursing

[17] South African Nursing Council (SANC) - R.880 Regulations for Diploma in Psychiatric Nursing - https://www.sanc.co.za/r-880/ - High Reliability - Official South African nursing regulatory body
[18] BIG-register - Registration - https://english.bigregister.nl/registration - High Reliability - Official Dutch healthcare professionals register

[19] Socialstyrelsen (National Board of Health and Welfare) - Legitimation - https://legitimation.socialstyrelsen.se/en/ - Medium Reliability - Official Swedish licensing authority (limited English detail)
[20] Helsedirektoratet (Norwegian Directorate of Health) - Authorisation and License for Health Personnel - https://www.helsedirektoratet.no/english/authorisation-and-license-for-health-personnel - Medium Reliability - Official Norwegian health personnel authorization authority
[21] Indian Nursing Council (INC) - Gazette Notification - https://www.indiannursingcouncil.org/gazette-notification - Medium Reliability - Official Indian nursing regulatory body
[22] Federazione Nazionale Ordini Professioni Infermieristiche (FNOPI) - Foreign Nurses - https://www.fnopi.it/en/for-foreign-nurses/ - Medium Reliability - Official Italian nursing regulatory federation

[23] Federal Nursing Council (COFEN) structure referenced in academic nursing literature - Low Reliability - Secondary sources only; primary Portuguese sources not accessed