hardfoster-carepolypharmacycomplex-traumadiagnostic-accumulationpediatrictrauma-informed-care
A 13-year-old boy in foster care is referred to the PMHNP by his caseworker for psychiatric evaluation. He has been in four different foster placements over the past two years after removal from his biological family due to neglect and physical abuse. His current medication list includes aripiprazole 10 mg daily, guanfacine 2 mg at bedtime, sertraline 100 mg daily, and hydroxyzine 25 mg three times daily as needed. Records indicate these medications were prescribed by three different providers across his placements. He carries diagnoses of ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, PTSD, and generalized anxiety disorder. His current foster parent reports ongoing behavioral difficulties including defiance, emotional outbursts, and difficulty sleeping. The PMHNP evaluates this clinical presentation. Which of the following best reflects evidence-based assessment considerations for this patient?