Judy O Connor-Becker

I am part of a tem of psychiatrists and nurse practitioners who take turns working weekends to cover the inpatient unit. I assess and treat each patient on the unit. It often involves medical issues as well. In addition, I see new patients who have come onto the unit by doing a thorough assessment and evaluation. Contacting the family and other providers available on the weekend is imperative. Medications may be started or adjusted in addition to ordering appropriate laboratory tests.

• Assessed patient conditions by performing thorough evaluations, including families, medical providers, school counselors and other members of the treatment team. In addition to performing appropriate scales and attempting to establish a relationship with the patient through trust.
• Diagnosed and responded to signs/symptoms reported by patient and family and other members of the treatment team. Medication is often provided, in addition to laboratory testing as well health counseling and education.
• Provided anticipatory guidance to pediatric patients and families concerning areas such as vaccine administration, developmental milestones and nutrition and hygiene practices.
• Contact with the family, for inpatient and outpatient patients is imperative in collecting data to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
• Explained side effects from medications and provided in-depth education to patients on the risks/benefits of starting a medication to treat their illness.
• Provided counseling to patients and families and referred patients to other treatment facilities if necessary.
• Evaluated patient progress and responses to various treatments.

Met with DNP students at various clinical sites to oversee time that they spent with their patients. We reviewed treatment plans and medication recommendations. In addition, we discussed current research related to specific patient issues. Part of the time, we met online. I also met with their preceptors. Exams were administered and specific questions were asked each week.

Perform psychiatric evaluations and provide medication management to adolescents/teens in an outpatient setting. In addition , educate families and patients on their diagnosis and the benefits/risks of starting medication. Work with other healthcare professionals in the community to provide optimal care as well as provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.