The mental state examination: how to do it and write it up on the ward
How to do a mental state examination on a psychiatry ward: what to notice from the door, what to ask under each heading, and a template for the notes.
By Dr Raj Joshi, ST6 General Adult Psychiatrist
Articles for psychiatry trainees on training, on-call, wellbeing, exams and careers. Every article is written by Dr Raj Joshi.
How to do a mental state examination on a psychiatry ward: what to notice from the door, what to ask under each heading, and a template for the notes.
Psychiatric history taking step by step: the order to ask in, the questions to use, keeping an admission to time, collateral, and a clerking template.
Rapid tranquillisation on a psychiatric ward: de-escalation first, the NICE choice of IM drug, the ECG and other cautions, and the checks afterwards.
Section 5(2) Mental Health Act for on-call doctors: who can use the holding power, how to complete Form H1, the 72 hours, and the errors to avoid.