Treatment of Patients With Schizophrenia

Publication Date: August 31, 2020
Last Updated: January 30, 2024

Recommendations

Assessment and Determination of Treatment Plan

As outlined in APA’s Practice Guidelines for the Psychiatric Evaluation of Adults (3rd edition), APA recommends that the initial assessment of a patient with a possible psychotic disorder include: (1, C)
  1. the reason the individual is presenting for evaluation
  2. the patient’s goals and preferences for treatment
  3. a review of psychiatric symptoms and trauma history
  4. an assessment of tobacco and other substance use
  5. a psychiatric treatment history
  6. an assessment of physical health
  7. an assessment of psychosocial and cultural factors
  8. a mental status examination, including cognitive assessment
  9. an assessment of risk of suicide and aggressive behaviors.
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APA recommends that the initial psychiatric evaluation of a patient with a possible psychotic disorder include a quantitative measure to identify and determine the severity of symptoms and impairments of functioning that may be a focus of treatment. (1, C)
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APA recommends that patients with schizophrenia have a documented, comprehensive, and person-centered treatment plan that includes evidence-based nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatments. (1, C)
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Video

Overview

Title

Treatment of Patients With Schizophrenia

Authoring Organization

American Psychiatric Association