Pediatric Mental Health Guidelines for Nurse Practitioners

Equips NPs and other primary care providers with the evidence-based knowledge to effectively treat behavioral and mental health issues in youths

Amid increasing mental health concerns for children and adolescents, this important book delineates the guidelines to support nurse practitioners and other primary care providers in effectively integrating mental health care into routine pediatric primary care. The text addresses the different approaches to care in a primary care setting versus a psychiatric-focused environment and provides insights tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities encountered by healthcare professionals in integrated primary care and mental health settings.

The book first focuses on incorporating mental health care into pediatric primary care settings by exploring various integration models and outlining steps for facilitating such a synthesis. It discusses how to create a therapeutic environment and addresses potential barriers to effective practice. The second section provides a detailed overview of how to conduct a mental health-focused history and physical exam, with special consideration given to age and developmental stage. The book then examines common mental health concerns of children and adolescents, covering both behavioral and developmental issues as well as psychiatric diagnosis. Chapters address epidemiology, etiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria, assessment and treatment strategies, and necessary collaborations. Also included is guidance on patient and family education and follow-up recommendations.

Key Features:

• Delivers current evidence-based guidelines for effective management of mental health in pediatrics
• Addresses the unique features of treating the pediatric population, including the role of school and ancillary support systems
• Examines the differences between approaches to mental health care in primary care and psychiatric-focused settings
• Discusses the challenges and opportunities for healthcare professionals in integrated primary care and mental health settings
• Presents information in clear, easy-to-access outline format

Auteur

Rebecka Evans RN, CPNP, PMHCNS-BC is a pediatric and psychiatric advanced practice nurse with additional training in functional and integrative medicine. She currently works at Bedford Pediatrics in Bedford, MA and maintains a private practice in Belmont, MA. Rebecka is also a PhD Candidate in Nursing at Northeastern University, Bouve School of Nursing in Boston, MA. Rebecka's research interests are related to the intersection of primary care and mental health, with a specific focus on gender and sexual minority populations.