Mental State Exam Flashcards
What does ASEPTIC stand for in the context of a Psychiatry Mental State Examination?
Appearance, Speech, Emotions/Mood, Percepts, Thoughts, Insight, Cognitive Function
ASEPTIC is an acronym used to structure the mental state examination.
What aspects are assessed under ‘Appearance & Behaviour’?
Build, Clothing, Hygiene, Accessories, Greeting, Cues, Gesturing, Movements
These factors help evaluate a patient’s physical presentation and social interactions.
What elements are analyzed in the ‘Speech’ section of the examination?
Spontaneity, Volume, Rate, Rhythm, Tone, Dysarthria, Dysphasia
Speech characteristics provide insight into a patient’s communication abilities and potential disorders.
What is the difference between subjective and objective assessment in ‘Emotions/Mood’?
Subjective refers to the patient’s self-reported feelings, while objective pertains to observable signs like eye contact and affect
Understanding both aspects is crucial for a comprehensive mood assessment.
Fill in the blank: The assessment of __________ includes illusions and hallucinations.
[Percepts]
What types of hallucinations are identified in the examination?
Auditory, Visual, Somatic, Olfactory, Gustatory
Hallucinations can vary in their sensory nature and impact on perception.
What are pseudohallucinations?
Hallucinations experienced with insight that they are not real
Pseudohallucinations differ from true hallucinations in their perceived reality.
Identify one question to assess thoughts related to ‘Formal Thought Disorder’.
Do you think that someone is inserting or removing your thoughts?
This question helps evaluate the presence of thought disorders.
What are the four sections of ‘Thought Form’?
Speed and Tempo of thoughts, Types of thoughts demonstrated, Linkage and thought form, Possession of thoughts
These sections help in understanding the organization and flow of a patient’s thoughts.
True or False: ‘Poverty of Thought’ is associated with quick and rapid thinking.
False
‘Poverty of Thought’ indicates slow and limited thought content, often seen in severe depression.
What does the assessment of ‘Insight’ gauge in a patient?
Patient’s understanding of their illness and need for treatment
Insight can vary from full awareness to complete denial of illness.
What cognitive functions are evaluated during the examination?
Orientation, Attention and concentration, Short term memory, Long term memory
These cognitive aspects provide a comprehensive view of a patient’s mental capabilities.
Fill in the blank: The assessment of __________ includes evaluating how well a patient can concentrate and remember short-term information.
[Attention and concentration]
