patvann/routine-bloodwork-for-antipsychotics

Routine Bloodwork for Antipsychotics

Target Population

Patients who are currently taking antipsychotic medications.

Recommendations

For patients on antipsychotic medication, a protocol will generate reminders and recommendations for clinicians to order these tests if they have not been performed within the past year:

A1C Test - to monitor blood glucose levels.
Lipid Panel - to check cholesterol levels.

Importance

Regular monitoring through these tests is crucial for patients on antipsychotic medications as these drugs can influence metabolic and cardiovascular health. The A1C test helps in detecting potential glucose-related issues, and the lipid panel helps in assessing cardiovascular risk.

Conclusion

Healthcare providers can streamline the process of monitoring patients on antipsychotics, ensuring that important health metrics are tracked on a regular basis. It helps in maintaining a structured approach to patient care, improving outcomes and reducing the risk of medication-related health issues. The protocol automates reminders for necessary lab tests, which can enhance clinician efficiency and patient safety.

Resources

Adherence to antipsychotic laboratory monitoring guidelines in children and youth: a population-based study

Children and youth receiving treatment with antipsychotic drugs are at risk of various metabolic disorders, including hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and hyperprolactinemia. In addition to their association with new-onset type 2 diabetes and sudden death, adverse metabolic effects and metabolic syndrome during childhood also predict increased adult cardiovascular risk. Therefore, early detection and management of adverse metabolic effects are required for children and youth treated with antipsychotics.

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