Psychiatry interview History Taking Dr. Ahmad AlHadi Consultant, Psychiatrist & Psychotherapist
Outlines Aims of the interview (Why) General Tips (How) Contents of Psychiatry History (What) Demonstration (How)
Psychiatric Interview (aims) Obtain information Understand the person with the illness Form a therapeutic relationship Assess the emotions and attitudes of the patient Provide the patient with information about the illness, treatment recommendations, and prognosis.
Psychiatric Interview (general advice) Putting the patient at ease : * place : not to be overheard * arrangements for seating * greet the patient by name * introduce yourself with your own name and your role * explain
Psychiatric Interview… (general advice) Starting the interview : * begin with a general question * to avoid closed questions and leading questions Proceeding with the interview : * to keep the patient to relevant topics, while letting him talk freely
Psychiatric Interview… (general advice) Non-verbal communication : * the interviewer’s non-verbal cues are important in guiding the interview Finishing the interview
The Psychiatric History Identifying data: name, age, sex, marital status, education, occupation, address, … Reason for referral Chief Complaints
The Psychiatric History Hx of Present Illness (HPI): * patient’s description of the problem. * details of the nature of the problem. * present severity of the symptoms other relevant problems * onset and course * associated Sx * Ask about: Organicity, Substance, Suicide, vegetative Sx
The Psychiatric History Past psychiatric history: Previous episodes Previous treatments: ECT, Psychotherapy Previous admissions
The Psychiatric History… Family history: * parents: age, occupation, personality, relationship with the patient * sibling: * social position; atmosphere of the home * Hx of mental disorder or drug abuse
The Psychiatric History… Personal history: * mother’s pregnancy and birth * early development * childhood separation, emotional problems * schooling and higher education * occupations * sexual relationships
The Psychiatric History… Personal history…. * menstrual history * marriage * children * forensic history Past medical history: * Chronic Illnesses and Tx *Admissions
The Psychiatric History… Premorbid personality: * relationships * leisure activities * prevailing mood * attitudes, standards * habits Drugs, alcohol, tobacco
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