The FNP is conducting a routine follow-up on a patient with depression. The patient reports she is feeling like she can’t go on anymore. The FNP learns that this patient discontinued her medication 3 weeks ago because she couldn’t afford it. What should the FNP do in this situation? Support your response.
Note: you can be creative; can talk about depression and also address barrier of healthcare cost, like low cost medications, or see a social worker, etc
Expectations
Initial Post:
APA format with intext citations
Word count minimum of 250, not including references.
References: 2 high-level scholarly references within the last 5 years in APA format.
Plagiarism free.
Turnitin receipt.
As a healthcare provider, it is crucial to address the patient’s concerns and needs, especially in cases of mental health conditions. Depression is a serious mental health issue that requires attention and prompt management. When patients discontinue their medication due to cost, it is imperative to provide them with alternative options. This paper will discuss the appropriate steps the FNP should take to manage the patient’s situation.
Firstly, the FNP should conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient’s current depressive symptoms to determine the level of care required. The FNP should assess the patient’s thoughts of self-harm, suicidal ideation, and other psychiatric symptoms. Additionally, the FNP should evaluate the patient’s social support system and the financial situation that led to the discontinuation of medication.
Next, the FNP should educate the patient on the importance of medication adherence and the risks associated with discontinuation. It is crucial to explain the benefits of medication and the potential adverse effects of untreated depression. Moreover, the FNP should discuss the patient’s financial concerns and provide information on low-cost medication options or programs that offer medication assistance.
Another critical step is to provide a referral to a social worker who can assist the patient in finding resources to help with medication costs. Social workers can help patients navigate financial barriers and access healthcare resources. They can also provide counseling and support to address the psychosocial aspects of depression.
Additionally, the FNP should collaborate with the patient to create a treatment plan that is affordable and effective. This may include exploring alternative treatments such as therapy or lifestyle changes that can help manage depression symptoms. The FNP should also schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s progress and address any concerns.
In conclusion, the FNP should take a patient-centered approach when managing depression, especially when the patient is unable to afford medication. It is essential to conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient’s needs, provide education on medication adherence and risks of discontinuation, refer to social workers for assistance, and collaborate with the patient to develop an affordable and effective treatment plan. With proper management, patients can receive adequate care and support to manage their depression effectively.
References:
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
Jorm, A. F., Patten, S. B., Brugha, T. S., & Mojtabai, R. (2017). Has increased provision of treatment reduced the prevalence of common mental disorders? Review of the evidence from four countries. World Psychiatry, 16(1), 90–99. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20396