A23:Yearold biracial (Black Asian) Female arrives at the clinic for an evaluation. She has lost 30 pounds in 6 weeks without trying. She complains of feelings
of guilt about her symptoms and everyday
sadness that does not go away. She also states she is not able to stay asleep and has difficulty concentrating. Her
family is Jamaican
and has used herbal teas, not a psychiatrist in the past to treat these symptoms.
.Discuss how the principles of good prescribing should be applied to this case.
.Describe a cultural consideration that may affect medication adherence for this patient.
Submission Instructions:
. Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources. Your initial post is worth 8 points.
It’s important to approach this case with a focus on the principles of good prescribing while considering the patient’s cultural background and potential influences on medication adherence.
Principles of Good Prescribing:
- Holistic Assessment: Begin by conducting a thorough assessment, considering physical, psychological, and social factors influencing the patient’s symptoms. In this case, the sudden weight loss, persistent sadness, guilt, sleep disturbances, and concentration difficulties warrant attention.
- Diagnostic Precision: Rule out any underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to the symptoms. For instance, conditions like thyroid disorders or certain infections can lead to weight loss and mood disturbances.
- Individualization of Treatment: Tailor the treatment plan to suit the individual patient. In this scenario, given the symptoms of depression (persistent sadness, guilt, sleep problems, concentration difficulties), an antidepressant medication or psychotherapy might be considered. However, the decision should be made in consultation with the patient.
- Safety and Risk Management: Assess the risks and benefits of medication options, considering the patient’s medical history, potential drug interactions, and side effects. This step is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient.
- Shared Decision-Making: Engage the patient in shared decision-making regarding treatment options. Involving the patient in the decision-making process can improve adherence and treatment outcomes.
Cultural Considerations for Medication Adherence:
Understanding the patient’s cultural background is crucial in enhancing medication adherence. In this case, the patient’s Jamaican heritage and previous use of herbal teas instead of psychiatric treatment might influence adherence to prescribed medications. Here are some cultural considerations:
- Herbal Remedies and Cultural Beliefs: Acknowledge and respect the patient’s cultural beliefs and practices regarding healthcare. In many cultures, including Jamaican traditions, herbal remedies are often preferred over conventional psychiatric medications due to historical practices and perceived natural benefits. This belief might affect the patient’s willingness to adhere to prescribed medications.
- Stigma Surrounding Mental Health Treatment: Address any potential stigma associated with mental health treatment within the patient’s cultural community. In some cultures, there might be stigma or reluctance to seek psychiatric help, which could impact adherence to prescribed medications.
- Communication and Trust: Establishing trust and effective communication is crucial. Ensure clear and culturally sensitive communication to explain the importance of the prescribed medication, its benefits, potential side effects, and how it aligns with the patient’s treatment goals.
- Involving Family and Community Support: In many cultures, family and community support play a significant role in healthcare decisions. Engaging the patient’s family or community members (if the patient agrees) in discussions about treatment can positively influence adherence.
By integrating these cultural considerations and adhering to the principles of good prescribing, healthcare providers can create a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan while respecting the patient’s cultural beliefs and improving medication adherence.