Medication 'Matters': A One Day Symposium on the Management of Medication in Mental Health

11 June 2008

University of Central Lancashire, Preston

Pharmacological interventions in mental health have had a profound effect since their introduction. Despite debates about the efficacy of antipsychotic medication however it forms the mainstay of secondary care mental health treatment, and is especially important in inpatient mental health settings. The administration of medication is an important aspect of the professional practice of nurses. It is not solely a mechanistic task to be performed but requires well developed therapeutic and decision making skills and the exercise of professional judgement.

This one day symposium will provide an opportunity to hear presentations from respected UK researchers and practitioners in the field as well as the results of smaller scale research and innovations in concurrent sessions. Hosted by the University of Central Lancashire it also offers networking opportunities for delegates from the UK.

The content area includes:

· A debate about the new NMC administration standards

· Service user perspectives on medication

· An overview of research and literature on medication management in this country

· Implications for practice and for non-medical prescribing

· Working with PRN medication

· Innovations in medication assessment and practice development

· The management of side effects

· Medication adherence

· Decision making in the management of medication

· Inter-professional working

· Psychopharmacology

Conference Aims

This symposium provides an opportunity for individuals from a range of practice settings in mental health to meet together with the aim of;

Creating an environment where practitioners, researchers and advocates can find opportunities for learning and collaboration with regards to medication management in mental health
Exchanging information on effective approaches to medication management, challenges to effective practice, the promotion of greater collaboration between service user and colleagues, therapeutic engagement strategies and safe practice.

Who should attend?

The symposium will be of interest to an audience of health care professionals working in a variety of mental health settings, pharmacists and service users

For a copy of the programme and booking form please contact:

Liz Kelly

Faculty of Health BDU

University of Central Lancashire

Preston

PR1 2HE

Tel 01772 893809

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