Administration of As-Needed Psychotropic Medications in Aged Care: Decision Matrix Employed by Nursing Staff

Prescribing of psychotropic medication in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) in Australia has again been highlighted by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.1 Some are prescribed for psychological disorders and others for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). A 2018 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report2 indicated that 86% of RACF residents had at least 1 diagnosed psychological disorder or behavioral condition [primarily depression (49%) and dementia (52%)].