Taking neuroleptic medications: a review.

Failure to take neuroleptic medications as prescribed often results in relapse and readmission to a psychiatric facility. It is the responsibility of the psychiatric/mental health nurse to ensure that clients have sufficient knowledge and support to enable them to make informed decisions regarding their medication regimen. In addition, the nurse has an important role as client advocate with regard to this treatment option. However, the issues surrounding noncompliance represent a major challenge to psychiatric/mental health nurses. This paper explores these complex issues surrounding the taking of prescribed neuroleptic medication, in particular, the impact of personal factors, knowledge of neuroleptic medications, therapy factors and the helper relationship upon the medication taking behaviour of psychiatric clients is presented in relation to the literature and recent research findings. Finally, the implications of these factors towards the role of the mental health nurse is discussed.