Severe obsessive-compulsive disorder with a first psychotic episode in adolescence: the role of the mental health nurse specialist in home hospitalization

Abstract

This article aims to describe the approach taken by the mental health nurse specialist to an adolescent with obsessive-compulsive disorder and a first psychotic episode through home hospitalization. We present the case of a 15-year-old adolescent with a history of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, admitted to the home hospitalization programme for behavioural disorganization and neglect of basic self-care. The nursing assessment was carried out using Marjory Gordon’s functional health patterns, identifying self-care deficit, social isolation and unstable emotional control as the main diagnoses. The care plan included interventions focused on establishing hygiene, eating and sleep habits, health education adapted to the family setting, and individualized coping techniques, aimed at improving the patient’s autonomy and emotional stability.