Reference no: EM133526916

You are the PMHNP working in the mental health department of the university student health center.

Jason is a 23 year old undergraduate student. He presents to you at the urging of one of his professors, as he was failing a class. He says that his professor told him that it was evident that Jason knew the material, but that his work did not adequately reflect his knowledge or abilities.

Jason is in his 5th year of college, but still has at least one more year left before he will have enough credits to graduate. He is worried that he will fail at least one class again this semester. He presents to your office asking to be evaluated for ADHD, as he feels that may be the underlying issue.

He states "my roommate takes Adderall and it seems to help him a lot."

In meeting with him, he acknowledges chronic disorganization, frequently turning in assignments late, losing his car and apartment keys regularly, avoiding doing homework because it's just "too hard," and having difficulty sustaining focus in lectures. He does not exhibit any signs or symptoms of depression or anxiety. He is medically stable, having been recently seen by the primary care department of the student health center. He denies smoking, but does vape "socially." He admits to smoking marijuana periodically as well as drinking 3-5 beers on the weekends with friends. States that his roommate recently offered him Adderall and "I admit, I took it. It helped me though. I didn't get high or anything. I just felt like I could think clearly for once in my life."

1. Jason appears to meet criteria for ADHD. What other information might you want to know before making this diagnosis on the first visit?

2. Jason admits to having taken his roommate's Adderall, though had a response that was seemingly favorable. He also admits to using marijuana and alcohol occasionally. With this in mind, would you proceed with prescribing him a stimulant? Why or why not?