About the Author
From Locked Units to Leadership — And Now, to You
Hi, I’m Dee.... — registered nurse, nursepreneur, consultant, coach, and the creator of the Psych Nurse Orientation Manual.
Dequnda Smith, bsn rn
With over 16 years in psychiatric mental healthcare, I’ve climbed the ranks from housekeeping to Chief Nurse Officer. I’ve worked in some of the most challenging settings in psych nursing—locked units, crisis situations, and leadership roles—gaining the kind of wisdom you simply can’t get from textbooks.
But the story behind this manual goes deeper.
After being diagnosed with mold toxicity, pneumonia, and a severe sinus infection, my health and memory began to fade. I was struggling—physically, mentally, and emotionally. For a while, I couldn’t even remember the very skills I had spent years teaching others.
And yet, from that lowest point came something extraordinary.
I started writing—everything I knew, everything I had taught, everything I had lived.
This manual was born during my healing. It became more than just notes—it became my mission.
Why I Created This Manual
Because every psych nurse deserves to walk onto the unit feeling confident, equipped, and supported from day one.
Because nursing school barely scratches the surface of what psychiatric care demands.
Because you deserve better.
✔ Real-world protocols, scripts, and tools
✔ Confidence for new nurses, clarity for seasoned ones
✔ A guide that speaks your language—because I’ve lived it
💬 My Message to You
This isn’t just a resource.
It’s a survival guide, a confidence booster, and a hand on your shoulder when you need it most.If you’re new to psych nursing—or even if you’ve been in it for years—this manual is here to equip, support, and empower you.I created this guide for every psych nurse who’s ever felt alone on the unit.
You're not.
I see you. I’ve been you. And I built this for you.
— DeQunda Smith