MIDTERM EXAMS: NR547 / NR 547 (LATEST 2025 /
2026 UPDATE STUDY BUNDLE) DIFFERENTIAL
DIAGNOSIS IN PSYCHIATRIC-MENTAL HEALTH ACROSS
THE LIFESPAN PRACTICUM EXAM | WEEKS 1-4
COVERED | COMPLETE GUIDE WITH QUESTIONS &
VERIFIED ANSWERS - CHAMBERLAIN
differential diagnosis .....ANSWER.....The provider's initial
hypothesis
-a working list of potential problems that can be associated with
the initial or chief complaint
-Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-
TR)
• provides guidance for identifying psychiatric diagnoses
Psychiatric assessment: History taking .....ANSWER.....-History of
Present Illness
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-How long have you been feeling this way?
-Did something happen in your life that may have triggered
these emotions?
-How is this current situation impacting your life?
The Psychiatric History
-Have you ever been hospitalized for any mental health issues?
-Have you ever had counseling or psychotherapy?
-Have you ever taken medications for your mental health in the
past?
-Are you currently on any medications for mental health or sleep?
Medical History/Screening for General Medical Conditions
-Do you have a primary care provider?
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-Do you have any medical illnesses?
-Are you currently taking any medications or herbal
supplements?
-Do you have any allergies to medications?
-Have you ever been hospitalized for any reason?
-Have you ever had surgery?
Family Psychiatric History
-Has any relative of yours ever been hospitalized for a mental
health issue?
-Has any blood relative of yours ever been diagnosed with a
mental health issue?
-Has any blood relative of yours had a history of seizures or
dementia/Alzheimer's?
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Social and Developmental History
-Tell me a little bit about your childhood and how you grew up.
-How was your experience in school when you were younger?
Did you enjoy school?
-How do you support yourself with your finances?
-Do you have a good support system? Are you currently in a
relationship? Where do you live? Who do you live with?
-What do you do in your free time? What activities do you
enjoy?
Screening and Psychiatric Rating Scales .....ANSWER.....Evidence-
based screening tools and psychiatric rating scales
-can help the provider identify symptoms and assess their
severity and can assist with the evaluation of response to
treatment