Module 3: Assessment
Lesson 4
Learning outcome
Describe the epidemiology, comprehensive assessment, safety considerations and goals of care that need to be addressed in prescribing therapy for ADHD.
Introduction
Assessment of ADHD, a chronic condition which begins in early childhood and often continues into adulthood, is examined in relation to the prescription of CDS therapy. Safety considerations when prescribing a controlled drug to treat ADHD are identified as well as the need to tailor the goals of care to individual needs.
Definition of ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a chronic condition with symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and sometimes impulsivity. It usually begins in childhood and often lasts into adulthood.
The above definition is based on the CADDRA Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance Expanded Toolkit and Guidelines.
References:
- Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance (CADDRA). (2011). CADDRA: Canadian ADHD Practice Guidelines (3rd ed.). Toronto, ON: Author.
- Statistics Canada. (2015). Part 1 – Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Retrieved from http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-619-m/2012004/sections/sectionc-eng.htm