The psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner assumes probably no greater responsibility than the responsibility of prescribing medications. While someone can be harmed by psychotherapy, the level and intensity of the harm generally does not come to the same level of harm that can occur from improper prescribing. The PMHNP must understand his/her responsibility both at a state and federal level when it comes to prescribing medications. It is of critical importance to understand the risks and benefits of the medications prescribed and their varying potential effects on special populations such as children/adolescents, pregnant women, or older adults.
This week, you examine the special considerations when prescribing for pregnant women and older adults.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
· Recommend psychopharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions for older adults and pregnant women in mental health settings
· Evaluate the risks and benefits of pharmacological treatment for older adults and pregnant women
· Justify clinical decision making related to pharmacological treatment of older adults and pregnant women in mental health settings