Intake Flashcards
(10 cards)
Client says ‘I feel hopeless, can’t sleep, lost interest in everything’ - What diagnosis should you consider?
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) - SIGECAPS symptoms, duration >= 2 weeks.
SIGECAPS refers to Sleep, Interest, Guilt, Energy, Concentration, Appetite, Psychomotor agitation or retardation, and Suicidal thoughts.
Client reports ‘racing thoughts, inflated self-esteem, no need for sleep’ - Which disorder fits best?
Manic episode (Bipolar Disorder) - look for DIGFAST criteria.
DIGFAST stands for Distractibility, Insomnia, Grandiosity, Flight of ideas, Activity increase, Speech (pressured), and Thoughtlessness.
Client describes ‘re-experiencing, nightmares, avoids triggers’ - What diagnosis is likely?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - must follow a traumatic event.
PTSD symptoms must persist for more than one month after the traumatic event.
What are the 4 main areas assessed in the Mental Status Exam (MSE)?
Appearance/Behavior, Mood/Affect, Thought Process/Content, Cognition.
Client appears disorganized, hears voices, and shows flat affect - What diagnosis should be ruled out?
Schizophrenia - assess delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech.
Client says ‘I get anxious all the time, can’t control my worry’ - What key diagnosis to consider?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) - 6+ months of excessive worry, physical symptoms.
What is the purpose of the intake assessment?
To gather history, identify presenting problem, risk factors, and begin diagnostic formulation.
What does it mean if a client ‘has poor insight and denies problems’?
Possible sign of psychosis, mania, or personality disorder - assess further.
What should you always assess during intake if the client appears withdrawn or agitated?
Suicidal ideation, plan, intent, and access to means.
Client describes ‘panic attacks out of nowhere’ - What diagnosis fits best?
Panic Disorder - unexpected attacks, intense fear, physical symptoms.
