Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a survey of diagnosis and treatment practices

Abstract

Purpose: To review the literature to ascertain best practices in the diagnosis and treatment of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to determine the current beliefs and practices of nurse practitioners (NPs) regarding adult ADHD.

Data sources: Licensed NPs (n= 260) responded to a questionnaire that inquired about numbers of patients seen with ADHD and about current diagnostic and treatment methods. Diagnostic confidence and referral patterns were also surveyed. Best practices were identified through a review of current and classic nursing, medical, and psychological literature on ADHD.

Conclusions: The results of the survey showed that most NPs believe that adult ADHD exists, although the majority diagnose and treat this condition infrequently. Psychiatric NPs were an exception.

Implications for practice: NPs are diagnosing and treating adult ADHD at levels far below expected based on population prevalence data. While those NPs who suspected ADHD were using appropriate diagnostic and treatment methods, more education is warranted to increase confidence for a greater number of nonpsychiatric NPs to improve targeted diagnosis and treatment for this condition.