A person living with a mental health condition
Audrey Fong is a 40-year-old woman who is currently detained under section 3 of the Mental Health Act. Her most recent admission to your unit followed her attempt to jump off a bridge. Audrey did this because she thought she was being followed by MI5 and a voice told her she couldn’t return home because her husband ‘had allowed them to bug the house’. Audrey is prescribed risperidone. She is presenting as distracted, restless, and anxious. She does not want to take any medication because she thinks it is making her gain weight. Audrey tells you that nobody will explain about the medication and it’s not fair to expect her to take it if she doesn’t understand how it works. This morning she says she is not going to take it. A colleague abruptly tells Audrey that ‘she does not have a choice about taking it now’. How would you manage this situation?
Why has Audrey been prescribed risperidone? What are the common side effects, cautions and contraindications?
How does risperidone work?
Demonstrate an understanding of the legal framework relating to administration of this medication to Audrey.
Identify your priorities in caring for Audrey.
