Date of this Version

7-27-2024

Document Type

DNP Project

Abstract

People with mental health problems face challenges trying to manage their condition and symptoms. The stigma of mental illness impacts significantly on how patients view treatment approaches and medication. The underutilization of long acting injectables (LAIs) in mental healthcare persists despite their potential to improve treatment outcomes, particularly for severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Patient’s perceptions and attitudes towards treatment have a compounding influence on drug adherence and healthcare providers (HCPs) must be aware of these perceptions when addressing the patient’s concerns. This literature review synthesizes recent research examining the benefits of educating HCPs about LAIs. It explores five key themes: adherence and effectiveness of LAIs, patient attitudes towards LAIs, HCP perceptions of LAIs education, barriers to LAI implementation, and the impact of HCPs' education on clinical outcomes. Findings indicate that LAIs enhance medication adherence and reduce relapse rates compared to oral psychotropic medications. Patient attitudes towards LAIs improve with education, highlighting the importance of the HCPs' role in providing information. Barriers such as lack of HCP knowledge and training hinder LAI implementation. Strategies to address these barriers include comprehensive education initiatives targeting HCPs to improve confidence and competence in LAI implementation. The literature emphasizes the urgent need for educational interventions to promote wider acceptance and utilization of LAIs in mental healthcare, aiming to benefit patient outcomes and quality of life. For practice change and research recommendations, future studies should focus on HCPs refresher education leading to a higher understanding, deeper knowledge, and positive attitudes towards LAIs.

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