Absolutely, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner can diagnose Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. PMHNPs are highly trained specialists in mental health care, as is ADHD, which gives them all the necessary knowledge to conduct a comprehensive, detailed and thorough examination based on certain scientific criteria.
Diagnosis usually consists of a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history, paying close attention to any familial instances of ADHD or similar conditions. PMHNPs commonly perform formal interviews not only with the patient but also with relevant relatives or educators to build an understanding of the person’s behavior and social involvement comprehensively. In addressing ADHD’s impact and its symptoms’ severity, they may use specially designed checklists and scales for ADHD.
Following thorough review of the collected data, the PMHNP can make an accurate diagnosis of a disruption in neurobiological functioning, attending to primary features such as chronic inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that result in deficits in the manageability of academic, occupational, or social roles. Given a diagnosis, the PMHNP is competent to develop individualized treatment regimens. And these plans may involve evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation and behavioral interventions, and medications, if they’re called for.
Additionally, it is important to acknowledge that the ability of PMHNPs to diagnose and treat ADHD may be limited by practice laws and local guidelines and regulations. In some states, PMHNPs may need to work with or under the supervision of a doctor, whereas other states allow PMHNPs to practice independently. Thus, it is important for those seeking assistance to understand the nature of what PMHNPs can and cannot do in their area.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/diagnosis/
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/adhd-what-you-need-to-know#pub1
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/childhood-adhd/adhd-hyperactive-impulsive-type
https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/adhd/what-is-adhd
https://nevadanursingboard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/APRN-FAQs.pdf
https://www.aanp.org/advocacy/advocacy-resource/policy-briefs/issues-full-practice-brief
https://www.nursingprocess.org/
