Mental Health Tutorial Flashcards
Define schizophrenia and list four clinical features.
Definition: A chronic psychiatric disorder with episodes of psychosis, hallucinations, delusions, and cognitive impairment.
• Clinical Features:
1. Auditory hallucinations
2. Delusions (e.g., paranoia, grandiosity)
3. Disorganized speech/thought
4. Negative symptoms (e.g., social withdrawal, flat affect)
What are key management steps for psychiatric inpatients in relation to dental care?
• Oral health assessment should be part of the general admission assessment
• Coordination with psychiatric team to minimize stress
• Use of calm, structured communication
• Consideration of sedation/anxiety management
Classify Alex’s medications and name one key side effect per drug.
• Clozapine (Atypical Antipsychotic) → Agranulocytosis
• Paracetamol (Analgesic) → Liver toxicity (at high doses)
• Salbutamol (β2-agonist for asthma) → Tachycardia
• Omeprazole (PPI for acid reflux) → Increased risk of C. difficile infection
How does cannabis use relate to schizophrenia?
• Increases risk of psychotic episodes
• Worsens cognitive function & medication adherence
• Can trigger early onset schizophrenia in genetically predisposed individuals
Why might smoking cessation not be a priority for Alex?
• Nicotine withdrawal can worsen psychiatric symptoms
• Smoking interacts with Clozapine metabolism, affecting drug levels
• He may lack motivation/insight into quitting
Describe the disease in Alex’s hard tissues and explain the causes.
• Broken teeth: Likely due to neglect, diet, and bruxism
• Poor healing ulcer: Possible oral cancer risk (linked to heavy smoking)
What legislation protects patients who lack capacity in the UK?
• Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000
• Principles: Benefit, least restrictive option, respect for past/present wishes, consultation with relevant others
How would you manage Alex’s mother’s request for implants?
• Explain unsuitability (e.g., high smoking rate, compliance issues)
• Discuss alternative prosthodontic options
• Emphasize patient autonomy & consent
What are possible differential diagnoses for John’s soft tissue lesions?
• Erosive lichen planus
• Oral candidiasis (due to inhaler use)
• Iron deficiency anemia-related atrophic glossitis
Based on John’s oral signs (generalized sensitivity, soft tissue changes), suggest a medical diagnosis.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) → Acid erosion of enamel
• Vitamin deficiency (B12, iron) → Burning mouth, mucosal atrophy
What preventive measures should John take based on his condition?
• For acid erosion: Avoid acidic foods/drinks, use fluoride toothpaste
• For inhaler use: Rinse mouth after use, maintain oral hygiene
• For GERD: Avoid late-night eating, refer for medical review
