Spasm or transformation? Advanced practice psychiatric nursing education in the United States.

Psychiatric nursing graduate programs are in precipitous decline in the United States, leading many advanced practice psychiatric nurses to question the viability of their field. This article examines the current crisis in advanced practice psychiatric nursing education in the United States by identifying core concerns and exploring the reasons for these concerns. Suggestions for securing the future of this practice area are also discussed. These suggestions include identifying a more clearly focused role for advanced practice psychiatric nurses, development of realistic educational expectations, achievement of greater uniformity in curricula, and the establishment of a strong and rigorous process of accreditation.