NURSING 2LA2 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Mental Status Examination, Clanging, Sensorium
Document Summary
The mental status examination is an important part of a full evaluation of every patient. This portion of the patient"s evaluation begins with the very first contact with the patient, continues during history taking, and is later completed by means of a more formal detailed inquiry into the patient"s mental functioning. The mental status can be considered the physical examination and review of systems of that portion of the brain which supports the higher mental functions. Since the brain cannot be directly percussed or palpated, the mental status consists of two separate parts: observations, specific questioning. One begins the evaluation of the mental status immediately by observing the patient and continuing to do so throughout any contact with him. Many aspects of his mental functioning can be picked up by observation, with the formal outline of mental status providing a structure for purposes of recording and reviewing to see that nothing has been left out.
