When is it appropriate for an NP to refer a patient for psychiatric evaluation?

Referring a patient for a psychiatric evaluation is appropriate when there are signs of severe mental health issues. Such conditions may include severe depression, suicidal ideation, psychosis, or any other significant mental health disorders that exceed the NP's scope of practice or require specialized intervention. Severe mental health issues can have profound effects on a patient's overall well-being and functioning, and they often necessitate comprehensive assessments and potentially complex treatment plans that a psychiatric professional is better equipped to provide.

Mild anxiety, while important to address, typically does not require a referral unless it significantly disrupts the patient's life or treatment isn't effective with initial interventions. Requests for therapy might indicate a need for support, yet they don't automatically necessitate a psychiatric evaluation. Furthermore, general stress is a common experience and often can be managed within primary care settings without the need for specialized psychiatric referral, unless it leads to more profound mental health concerns.