Functional PSYCHIATRY

Here are the key components and steps for Dr. Tabacaru's diagnosis:

1. Comprehensive Assessment:

   • Clinical Interview: A detailed discussion with the patient (and sometimes with family members or other informants) to gather information about their symptoms, history, and overall functioning.
   • Medical and Psychiatric History: Collecting information about past medical conditions, psychiatric disorders, treatments, hospitalizations, and substance use.
   • Symptom Review: Identifying and evaluating current symptoms, their onset, duration, and impact on daily life.

2. Mental Status Examination (MSE):

   • Appearance and Behavior: Observations of the patient’s physical appearance, behavior, and level of activity.
   • Mood and Affect: Assessment of the patient's emotional state and observable emotional expressions.
   • Thought Process and Content: Evaluation of the patient’s thinking patterns, including coherence, logic, and the presence of any delusions or hallucinations.
   • Cognition: Testing cognitive functions such as memory, attention, concentration, and orientation.
   • Insight and Judgment: Assessment of the patient’s awareness of their condition and their ability to make sound decisions.

3. Differential Diagnosis:

   • The process of distinguishing a particular mental health disorder from other similar conditions that may present with overlapping symptoms.

4. Formulation and Diagnosis:

   • Formulation: Developing a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition, including the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors.
   • Diagnosis: Assigning a specific diagnostic label based on the information gathered and the criteria met.

5. Collaborative Discussion:

   • Discussing the diagnosis with the patient, explaining the nature of the disorder, the rationale behind the diagnosis, and the potential treatment options.

6. Documentation:

   • Recording the diagnosis, assessment findings, and treatment plan in the patient's medical record.