Is teaching signs and symptoms a good idea?

[RN.38SPCL]

I have 2 inmates right now that want print outs of side effects for their meds as well as signs and symptoms. Sounds like a legit question from anyone else. I know if I educate them they'll suddenly have side effects. How do you handle this request? I try to be pretty careful about what I teach and don't teach. esp. the psych pt's on numerous meds. How do you answer that question from them?

[VegRN]

What does your P&P say about this?

If they wanted the side effects, you could give them the medication insert from the med they were on. Or you could print something special out since the med inset is generally geared to an education much higher than the average inmate.

Whatever you do, just make sure you follow your P&P. I would think you have to give them something if they ask.

I am always careful about this too. Sometimes it is because the inmate is manipulative and searching for a trip to the hospital. In this case, think of all the other places and people they could find side effects of meds though?? Other inmates, family members etc. If they get phone calls or letters, the family could reports side effects to them easily.

One of the most common reasons I am hesitant to give med information though is because most med information often makes it look like the med is going to kill the person that takes it. If the inmate is the nervous type, they may look into every single possible side effect and worry that they may get all of them. I often have to remind them that the doctor has determined that the medication has more benefit than risk and we are going to monitor side effects closely. After I calmly tell the inmate that about 5 times, they usually calm down a little bit.

My advice is to check the P&P. I imagine it varies a lot by facility.