An 11-year-old boy presents to the clinic with his parents for concerns about his behavior over the past 3 months. His mother reports the patient has an easily irritable mood and has not been interested in normal activities with friends. Teachers have notified her that he has shown trouble concentrating during class, and his academic performance has suffered. The patient states he “just feels tired” because he “doesn’t sleep well at night.” Upon further questioning, the patient reveals he has had thoughts of suicide that are made worse by the voices he hears. · What is the best diagnosis? · What screening tool(s) are available for further assessment. · How will the PMHNP( Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) approach management of the patient’s symptoms? (i.e. pharmacologic vs. non-pharmacologic interventions)
