Nurse
What is a Registered Nurse and what do they do?
Registered Nurses assess a person's health needs and provide advice and support in managing their health issues. Nurses work in a variety of health areas depending on their experience and what they have studied, and provide nursing interventions that require a level of scientific and professional knowledge and skills.
For more information on what a Nurse does check out the following website link:
What do Child and Adolescent Mental Health and AOD Nurses do?
- support children and young people and their families/whanau in a variety of settings
- provide education and treatment where needed
- ensure the child or young person understands the effects of their treatment and any alternative options available
- support the child or young person and staff when the unexpected or crisis happens
- know how medication works and how a child or young person should take it safely
- work as part of the child and adolescent mental health team with staff in other roles
What's great about this job?
- Nurses can work in a huge variety of places
- working with young people and supporting their wellbeing
- being able to think outside the square
- working in a fun environment with a great group of people
"I think (Māori) are naturally attracted to this type of work, the manaaki, the awhi and the aroha, it's just a natural part of our work." Reena Kainamu, Whirinaki CAMHS, Counties Manukau DHB, Auckland
What personal qualities do you need?
A Child and Adolescent Mental Health Nurse needs to be:
- good at relating to people, particularly children and young people;
- non-judgemental
- a good organiser
- good at making decisions
Who could you work with?
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Nurses work with every age group from 0-18 years. They also work in partnership with the families/whanau and community that a child or young person is connected with.
What kinds of places could you work in?
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Nurses can work in various settings. These can include; hospitals, medical centres/GPs, schools, marae, people’s homes and community centres. Within each of these settings, nurses can work on their own or within a team.
How much could you expect to earn?
Salaries vary, but Mental Health Nurses usually earn between $40,000 and $60,000+ per year depending on level of skills and experience. Overtime and allowances for shift work may increase this amount.
Are there any scholarships I can apply for to help with the cost of studying?
Yes! There are a number of scholarships that you may be able to apply for. Click here for details.
For information on where you can study to become a Nurse, how long it takes and what you should study at school click here for the Mental Health Nurse page on the Career Services website.
