Mental Status
The level of consciousness and mental status examination is a vital physical assessment technique for every patient. The examiner must note the client’s specific characteristics, mannerisms and thought processes at all stages of the health assessment encounter. The information gathered by the examiner assists in organizing the client encounter and making any alterations in communication style, technique, order of assessment, etc., based on the client’s mental status and awareness.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Review basic Level of Consciousness (LOC) and Mental Status Examination (MSE) patient presentations.
- Complete a comprehensive LOC and MSE assessment.
- Understand the expected findings of a LOC and MSE assessment.
- Review common pathological signs and symptoms of altered mental status and LOC.
- Learn appropriate documentation of assessment findings.
- Practice and apply critical thinking skills through applicable case study review.
