Fundamental concept
How to move from raw observation to MSE category to clinical significance to the next assessment step.
Read: The Mental Status Examination →Scenario
A 29-year-old arrives on time for an initial appointment, dressed appropriately for the weather. She makes good eye contact and answers questions readily. She describes her week in a logical, easy-to-follow way.
Place each observation in the mental status category it belongs to.
Items
States, "I have been feeling pretty good lately."
Maintains good eye contact throughout the interview
No delusions, obsessions, or preoccupations elicited
Answers are logical and goal directed
Dressed appropriately for the weather, well groomed
Expression is full range and congruent with what she describes
Normal rate, volume, and rhythm
Appearance & behavior
Drop items here
Speech
Drop items here
Mood & affect
Drop items here
Thought process & content
Drop items here
