PSYCHIATRIC/PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGICAL SERVICES This form of therapy consists of the use of psychotropic medication in the treatment of a resident. Psychopharmacological therapy is provided as a combined effort of the psychiatrist, pharmacy, nurses, clinical staff, education staff, and residential treatment workers. The psychiatrist discusses with the resident the possible benefits and possible side effects of the medication being considered. The psychiatrist is also available to discuss the same information with the parent/guardian. The parent/guardians are then asked to sign a consent form for the use of that specific psychotropic medication prior to it being instituted. The psychiatrist documents in his/her progress notes the rationale for the use of the specified psychotropic medica¬tion as well as the discussion with the resident. The nurse is available to discuss with the parent/guardian the recommendations for use of the medication, including possible benefits and side effects. The Academy psychiatrist conducts a multidisciplinary review of each resident's progress on a regular basis. The mechanism for this is the "Case Review" with each therapist. The resident's progress is reviewed by the psychiatrist with the primary therapist. The psychiatrist dictates a "Case Review" note for the record, summarizing findings/ recommendations of the review. Residents currently prescribed any psychotropic medication will have the efficacy of that medication specifically addressed in a progress note by the psychiatrist at least twice every 30 days. This is accomplished through a face-to-face meeting between the resident and psychiatrist followed by a "Progress Note" dictated by the psychiatrist summarizing his/her evaluation. Emergency psychopharmacological therapy is available through use of a STAT order by the psychiatrist after direct or telephone consultation with the psychiatrist by the nurse. Evaluation of the effect, i.e. beneficial, lack of effect or side effects is recorded by the administering nurse. Each resident is seen by the psychiatrist for a psychiatric evaluation within fourteen days of admission. Residents are then seen 2 times per month. The psychiatrist may choose to see the resident additionally if there is an episode that they need to address with the resident.