Reference no: EM132994317

Assessment and Diagnosis of the Psychiatric Patient

A sensitively crafted intake assessment can be a powerful therapeutic tool. It can establish rapport between patient and therapist, further the therapeutic alliance, alleviate anxiety, provide reassurance, and facilitate the ?ow of information necessary for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

-Pamela Bjorklund, clinical psychologist

Whether you are treating patients for physical ailments or clients for mental health issues, the assessment process is an inextricable part of health care. To properly diagnose clients and develop treatment plans, you must have a strong foundation in assessment. This includes a working knowledge of assessments that are available to aid in diagnosis, how to use these assessments, and how to select the most appropriate assessment based on a client's presentation.

This week, as you explore assessment and diagnosis of patients in mental health settings, you examine assessment tools, including their psychometric properties and appropriate uses. You also familiarize yourself with the DSM-5 classification system.

Question 1: Evaluate elements of the psychiatric interview, history, and examination

Question 2: Analyze psychometric properties of psychiatric rating scales

Question 3: Justify appropriate use of psychiatric rating scales in advanced practice nursing