E.J. is a 62-year-old Caucasian male who initially presented with new-onset symptoms of psychosis and mood liability thought to be connected with high-dose Prednisone treatment for poison ivy exposure. He was brought to an emergency room by his grandson approximately 11 months ago with extreme agitation. Evaluation of E.J. at that time revealed auditory hallucinations. E.J. noted that the whispering voices had a persecutory tone. He also expressed feelings of paranoia, saying that the voices were plotting against him and that he would not let them win. The patient is currently residing in the secure wing of an assisted living facility.

History

E.J. has a past medical history that includes hypertension, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, peptic ulcer disease, and peripheral artery disease (with stents), but no prior psychiatric history. His mother was diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Assignment Instructions

For your assignment, complete the following information based on the patient information you have been given. Include at least one Internet source and two evidence-based articles in addition to the assigned texts to support your recommendation(s).

1. Diagnoses, Differentials, and ICD Code(s):
   Provide your recommendations for each.
2. Medications:
   Provide your recommended drug therapy, including common side effects and potential or actual adverse drug responses (ADR), common drug and/or food interactions, and key monitoring points.
3. Psychosocial Issues:
   Discuss the psychosocial issues and circumstance(s) surrounding this case.
4. Variables Related to Aging and Mental Health:
   Describe unique patient variables that are involved in the patient’s response to aging and mental health.
5. Recommendations:
   Include non-pharmacological interventions. List any changes in care approaches you would suggest.