Who Mental State Examination?

A mental state examination (MSE) is the observation of a patient's present mental state and forms one part of a working diagnosis. The MSE allows you to assess patients' risk of harm to themselves or others or both.

What is involved in a mental state examination?

This MSE includes all 10 aspects: appearance, behaviour, speech, mood, affect, thoughts, perception, cognition, insight and judgement and clinical judgement. Rapport may also be included. The undertaking of an MSE requires time.

How do I report mental status exams?

A good report is brief, clear, concise, and addresses the areas below:
  1. Appearance.
  2. Behavior/psychomotor activity.
  3. Attitude toward examiner (interviewer)
  4. Affect and mood.
  5. Speech and thought.
  6. Perceptual disturbances.
  7. Orientation and consciousness.
  8. Memory and intelligence.
Robert Thorne

Robert Thorne

Automotive & Future Transportation Editor

Robert Thorne covers electric vehicle innovations, autonomous driving systems, global mobility trends, and automotive engineering developments.