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NRSE 6400 Final Exam Case Study
1. What additional information is needed to formally diagnose this client? (10
points)
To formally diagnose Mr. S. with schizophrenia, a comprehensive psychiatric
evaluation would typically include gathering additional information in several key
areas:
Detailed History: Further exploration of Mr. S.'s personal and family
psychiatric history, including any past episodes of psychosis or other mental
health concerns, as well as any significant life events or stressors leading up to
the onset of his current symptoms.
Duration and Course of Symptoms: Determining the duration and
progression of his current symptoms, including when they first began, how
they have evolved over time, and whether there have been any periods of
remission or exacerbation.
Substance Use: Inquiry into any substance use, including alcohol, drugs, or
medications, as substance use can exacerbate or mimic symptoms of
psychosis.
Medical History: A review of Mr. S.'s medical history, including any medical
conditions or treatments that may contribute to or exacerbate psychiatric
symptoms. Medical conditions that can mimic schizophrenia such as
hyperthyroidism or diabetes.
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Neurological Examination: Assessment for any neurological abnormalities
or signs of organic brain dysfunction that may be contributing to his
symptoms.
Mental Status Examination: A more thorough mental status examination,
including assessment of his cognitive function, memory, attention, and other
cognitive domains.
Collateral Information: Obtaining information from family members,
friends, or other sources who have observed Mr. S.'s behavior and can provide
additional insight into his symptoms and functioning.
2. What is the most likely diagnosis? (5 points)
Schizophrenia
3. What signs/symptoms support this diagnosis? Provide a brief discussion to
support. (5 points)
Delusions: Mr. S. believes that a deadly chip has been implanted in his brain
by evil aliens, and he is experiencing paranoia, thinking that his family is
conspiring with the aliens to have him killed. These are classic delusions of
persecution and paranoia often seen in schizophrenia (McCarron et al., 2018).
Auditory hallucinations: While Mr. S. denies auditory hallucinations, his
behavior of whispering in an agitated voice when no one is nearby suggests he
may be experiencing them (McCarron et al., 2018).
Disorganized thinking and speech: His illogical thought processes and lack
of goal direction indicate disorganized thinking, which is common in
schizophrenia (McCarron et al., 2018).
NRSE 6400 Final Exam Case Study
1. What additional information is needed to formally diagnose this client? (10
points)
To formally diagnose Mr. S. with schizophrenia, a comprehensive psychiatric
evaluation would typically include gathering additional information in several key
areas:
Detailed History: Further exploration of Mr. S.'s personal and family
psychiatric history, including any past episodes of psychosis or other mental
health concerns, as well as any significant life events or stressors leading up to
the onset of his current symptoms.
Duration and Course of Symptoms: Determining the duration and
progression of his current symptoms, including when they first began, how
they have evolved over time, and whether there have been any periods of
remission or exacerbation.
Substance Use: Inquiry into any substance use, including alcohol, drugs, or
medications, as substance use can exacerbate or mimic symptoms of
psychosis.
Medical History: A review of Mr. S.'s medical history, including any medical
conditions or treatments that may contribute to or exacerbate psychiatric
symptoms. Medical conditions that can mimic schizophrenia such as
hyperthyroidism or diabetes.
, 2
Neurological Examination: Assessment for any neurological abnormalities
or signs of organic brain dysfunction that may be contributing to his
symptoms.
Mental Status Examination: A more thorough mental status examination,
including assessment of his cognitive function, memory, attention, and other
cognitive domains.
Collateral Information: Obtaining information from family members,
friends, or other sources who have observed Mr. S.'s behavior and can provide
additional insight into his symptoms and functioning.
2. What is the most likely diagnosis? (5 points)
Schizophrenia
3. What signs/symptoms support this diagnosis? Provide a brief discussion to
support. (5 points)
Delusions: Mr. S. believes that a deadly chip has been implanted in his brain
by evil aliens, and he is experiencing paranoia, thinking that his family is
conspiring with the aliens to have him killed. These are classic delusions of
persecution and paranoia often seen in schizophrenia (McCarron et al., 2018).
Auditory hallucinations: While Mr. S. denies auditory hallucinations, his
behavior of whispering in an agitated voice when no one is nearby suggests he
may be experiencing them (McCarron et al., 2018).
Disorganized thinking and speech: His illogical thought processes and lack
of goal direction indicate disorganized thinking, which is common in
schizophrenia (McCarron et al., 2018).
