7th Edition of World Nursing Science Conference 2027

Abstract

Background: 
Oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely prescribed for pregnancy prevention and the management of gynecologic and hormonal conditions. For female patients in psychiatric care, maintaining consistent OC therapy during hospitalization is critical, as treatment disruptions can increase vulnerability to unintended pregnancies and adverse health outcomes. Although medication reconciliation is a well-established patient safety priority, minimal research exists regarding contraceptive access within acute, in-patient behavioral health (BH) settings.
Purpose: 
This evidence-based practice project evaluates the availability and administration protocols of OCs within acute, in-patient BH units across Wisconsin.
Methods:
A survey-based study was conducted to examine institutional barriers across Wisconsin hospitals with acute, in-patient BH units. Eligible facilities serving females aged 18–49 were identified using the American Hospital Directory and compiled into a master registry. Hospital pharmacists were selected as the primary target population due to their expertise in medication reconciliation and formulary management. Recruitment was conducted via telephone outreach to each facility's central pharmacy. Licensed pharmacists completed a seven-item telephone survey designed to assess organizational workflows for administering OCs within acute, in-patient BH units.
Results: 
While all responding facilities reported that patients could continue OC therapy during their stay, access frequently relied on patients bringing their own supply rather than the hospital stocking these medications on their formulary. Hospitals commonly required provider verification, formal physician orders, and clinical screening for contraindications prior to administration of patient supplied OCs. The primary barriers to stocking OCs included the vast number of formulations on the market, safety concerns, and facility-specific policies. Overall, the study revealed significant variation in practice patterns across institutions.
Conclusions: 
These findings suggest that continuation of OC therapy in acute, in-patient BH units is feasible, but the achievable remains dependent on local institutional workflows and resources. 
Implications: 
The results support the need for a national assessment of contraceptive access in psychiatric inpatient facilities. A forthcoming national survey will evaluate national variations in OC availability and identify opportunities to standardize practices that promote equitable reproductive healthcare for hospitalized BH patients.