Role of the Nurse with Psychotropic Medications

Clients have the right to…

REFUSE medication treatment

What is the exception to the patients right to refuse medication?

Emergency situations

What are examples of emergency situations in which PRN psychotropic medications may be administered without consent?

Harm to SELF

Harm to OTHERS

When may individuals have court-ordered outpatient treatment? (medications)

Not seeking treatment and has hx of VIOLENT, AGGRESSIVE behavior

What kind of assessment must be conducted by the nurse before a pt is placed on a regimen of psychopharmacological therapy?

BASELINE assessment (see how patterns differ from their BASELINE)

In performing a med reconciliation with a patient, the nurse needs to get information about…

• Vitamins

• Prescribed Medications

• OTC Medications

• Street drug use

• Allergies

• INTERACTIONS BETWEEN MEDICATIONS!!

What is a good way for the nurse to assess whether or not the patient understands their medication regimend?

Teach-back