Antipsychotic Med Policy

[Holly Sox, RN, RAC-C]

Hi, Group, One citation we received on Survey was for antipsychotic use without the appropriate dx. I have really been tearing my hair out with psychotropic meds in general since starting here a year ago.  I have developed a letter to send to MD when antipsychotic is initiated without the proper dx as well as when I find one already on the med without dx.  I suggested implementing a policy of not starting antipsychotic med until the form was completed by the physician, but DON and Administrator both said they felt uncomfortable with a policy of not following a physician's order.   But, is that any different from not following any other inappropriate order without clarification??? For example, I wouldn't start IVF at 300 cc/hour on a CHF patient, just because the doctor ordered it.   Could any of you who are "lurking" surveyors (Yeah, you, MR), send me some guidance (along with links to supporting regulations, etc)?  Also, what are other facilities doing as far as P/P for antipsychotic meds? Thanks! Holly  Holly F. Sox, RN, RAC-C Clinical Editor   www.careplans.com   [EMAIL PROTECTED]