Search

PURPOSE: There has been an increase in the number of children and adolescents requiring behavioral health care services since 2012. Many of these children and adolescents experience symptoms for several years before parents seek services. Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) graduate programs often offer students a minimum of child adolescent content, leaving PMHNP graduates less prepared to provide services for these complex patients. SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE: In 2015, 3 million children and adolescents had a depressive episode in the previous year. A total of 6.5 million adolescents have had a diagnosis of anxiety disorder. Many children and adolescents with symptoms do not seek services for behavioral health. Often PMHNPs lack clinical experience and expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of complex childhood disorders. DESCRIPTION: Increasing numbers of pediatric patients are seeking care for anxiety disorder, depression, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder. Fewer skilled providers exist to address this demand. This presentation will be a "how to" diagnose and treat increasing complex presentation in children and adolescents patients using a holistic lens. VALIDATION OF EVIDENCE: National Institute of Mental Health/ American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry reports that since 2012, increased numbers of children and adolescent are presenting with behavior health issues. The numbers of Food and Drug Administration-approved medications are limited, and fewer research protocols address treatment modalities in this population. RELEVANCE/OUTCOMES: PMHNPs are uniquely positioned to diagnosis and provide evidence-based care for these children and adolescents but often lack knowledge and experience. IMPLICATIONS: Improved PMHNP knowledge of evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents will increase the health outcomes for this specialized population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]