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Mental health nurses' PRN psychotropic medication administration practices
1School of Nursing Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia.
Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
|March 8, 2002
Summary
Mental health nurses frequently administer PRN psychotropic medications, but practices lack clarity. This study found high administration rates and reliance on older antipsychotics, indicating a need for better understanding and documentation in mental healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Practice
- Psychiatric Pharmacy
- Mental Health Services
Background:
- Psychotropic medications administered on an 'as needed' basis (PRN) are a common nursing intervention in mental health facilities.
- The autonomous nature of PRN medication administration by nurses necessitates a deeper understanding of the influencing factors.
- Limited research exists on the detailed practices and decision-making processes involved in PRN psychotropic medication administration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the factors influencing the administration of PRN psychotropic medications by mental health nurses.
- To identify current practices, decision-making processes, and documentation standards related to PRN psychotropic medication use.
- To compare administration incidence and medication choices with contemporary literature and best practices.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive project utilizing a retrospective chart audit.
- Data collected from one regional and one urban mental health setting in Queensland, Australia.
- Analysis focused on identifying patterns in PRN psychotropic medication administration and associated documentation.
Main Results:
- Significant lack of clarity identified in PRN psychotropic medication administration practices.
- Confusion surrounding the decision-making processes for administering these medications was prevalent.
- Poor documentation practices were observed, alongside a high incidence of PRN psychotropic medication administration.
- An excessive reliance on typical antipsychotics over benzodiazepines was noted, contradicting current literature.
Conclusions:
- Current PRN psychotropic medication administration practices in mental health settings require significant improvement.
- Further research is recommended to understand the complexities of this nursing intervention.
- An investigation into documentation practices within inpatient mental health settings is crucial to enhance patient care and safety.