# What can a registered mental health and psychiatric nurse do in Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/what-can-a-registered-mental-health-and-psychiatric-nurse-do-in-kenya
For: Clinicians | Mental health practice | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** According to the Nursing Council of Kenya's 2020 scope of practice, a registered nurse trained in mental health and psychiatry is licensed to provide care in clinical and community settings in line with the Mental Health Act. In addition to general nursing duties, they may perform comprehensive psychiatric and mental health diagnostic evaluations as per guidelines and prescribe and perform selected treatments. Psychiatric nurses are also recognised as mental health practitioners under the Mental Health Act.

Sources: Nursing Council of Kenya: http://nckenya.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Scope_of-Practice_For_Entry_Level_Programmes_17.08.2020.pdf - Kenya Law: https://new.kenyalaw.org/akn/ke/act/1989/10/eng@2023-12-11

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