Observations

A mental status assessment is a systematic method used to evaluate a Pt’s mental function. In undertaking a mental status assessment, the main emphasis is on the person’s behaviour. This assessment is designed to provide Paramedics with a guide to the Pt’s behaviour, not to label or diagnose a Pt with a specific condition.

Appearance	Neatness, cleanliness Pupils – size Extraocular movements
Behaviour	Bizarre or inappropriate Threatening or violent Unusual motor activity, such as grimacing or tremors Impaired gait Psychomotor retardation or agitation
Speech	Rate, volume, quantity, content
Mood	Depressed, agitated, excited or irritable
Response	Flat – unresponsive facial expression Appropriate/inappropriate
Perceptions	Delusions (i.e., false beliefs) Suicidal thoughts Overly concerned with body functions (e.g. Bowels)
Thought Content	Delusions (i.e., false beliefs) Suicidal thoughts Overly concerned with body functions (e.g. Bowels)
Thought flow	Jumping irrationally from one thought to another
Concentration	Poor ability to organise thoughts Short attention span Impaired judgement Poor memory Lack of insight