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Abstract

Each and every day, stressful situations challenge oneâ�?�?s health care integrity. How we react to those forces can positively or negatively impact oneâ�?�?s physical or physiological integrity. Our perception of that stressor can ultimately lead to the doors of a health care professional where prescriptions may be written for anti-anxiety, antidepressant or psychotropic medications. Although psychological effects may be eradicated, there also can be a physiological chain reaction where orthostatic hypotension, impaired balance, confusion and falls occur. As outlined by the six core competencies in â�?�?Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN)â�?, keeping our clients safe is paramount. Responsibilities include pharmacological knowledge of the effects of mental health drugs.

Biography

Joanne Zanetos is an Assistant Professor in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at the College of Coastal Georgia. She has extensive experience as a registered Nurse and Nurse Educator in higher education. She has published in nursing journals and has been a previous speaker at the International Conference for Geriatrics and Gerontology.

Email: jzanetos@ccga.edu