Youth in Mind
Tara L. Favis, MSN, RN, NP-C
- Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
- June 2012 - Volume 50 · Issue 6: 17-20
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DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20120508-05
Abstract
A child or adolescent with pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD) is at higher risk for suicide, violence, and impaired psychosocial functioning. The prevalence of diagnosed PBD has increased 40-fold in less than 2 decades, leading some to believe that PBD is inaccurately diagnosed. Complicating this issue, disagreements exist among clinicians as to the utility of current screening methods. The assessment picture is further muddied by the high rate of comorbid psychiatric conditions. A literature review was performed to describe the present understanding of PBD and identify current practices of screening for the disorder. Although screening tools are available, the literature suggests they lack validity. Awareness, a thorough interview, and expedient referral may assist clinicians in making a correct diagnosis. Accurate assessment will help ease the psychological and economic burden of PBD.
AUTHORS
Ms. Favis is currently a staff nurse, Cardiovascular Progressive Care Unit, Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, Marietta, Georgia. This article was written for her master’s degree capstone project in the family nurse practitioner program, University of Cincinnati.
The author has disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise. The author acknowledges Linda Quinlin, MS, RN, ACNS-BC, NP-C; Tara Crabtree, MS, RN, WHNP-C; and Kevin Wolfe, BSN, RN, for their assistance and guidance in creating this article.
Address correspondence to Tara Favis, MSN, RN, NP-C, 2027 Ferry Drive, Marietta, GA 30066; e-mail: tfavis@hotmail.com.
Received: February 21, 2012
Accepted: April 27, 2012
Posted: May 18, 2012
doi: 10.3928/02793695-20120508-05