Enriching Geropsychiatric Nursing in Advanced Practice Nursing Programs

The need for advanced practice nurses with knowledge and skills in geropsychiatric nursing is real and looming larger than ever. By 2030, the number of older adults with major psychiatric illnesses is predicted to reach 15 million. Preparing advanced practice nurses with mental health and geropsychiatric nursing expertise is essential. This paper describes three innovative curricular models for addressing geropsychiatric nursing in graduate advanced practice nursing programs. These models can be implemented with vision, planning, modest resources, and the cooperation of the faculty.