Checking physical care of people on risperidone long term injectable depot.

AIMS AND METHODS: To assess the existing physical care of patients with severe mental illness and whether it has complied with national protocols and guidelines. Medical notes of patients who has been on risperidone long acting injectable depot for a year were reviewed and a form was filled with the information of each patient including weight, physical examination, fasting blood sugar (FBS), Serum lipid (S.L.), pulse, blood pressure and ECG liver function tests (LFT). 50% had comorbidity with other physical illness, at the start of treatment, at three months and six months intervals.

RESULTS: 65 notes were reviewed. 70% males. 70% between 18-50 years. 80% had the illness more than 5 years and 50% more than 10 years. The following was done baseline: 50% had physical examination. 25% had pulse, blood pressure and ECG. Body weight 10%. Triglycerides 20%. Urea and electrolytes (U&E) 15%. 40% had their liver function tests (LFT). 50% had comorbidity with other physical illness. The following were done on six monthly maintenance measures: Only 5% had maintenance ECG. LFT 10%. U&E 30%. Triglycerides 5%.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Physical illnesses are neglected areas in the care of the severely mentally ill patients. It is an important area in the management of severe mental illness. Proper physical assessment and regular follow up should be adopted. Promotion of healthy living and eating, exercise and monitoring weight should be recommended. All these measures may improve the physical health of severely mentally ill patients and improve the total outcome of these illnesses.