Mental status exam

Definition

The Mental Status Exam (MSE) is a systematic procedure performed by healthcare professionals to evaluate a patient's cognitive, emotional, and psychological functioning. It forms part of the broader neurological exam, focusing on assessing aspects such as memory, mood, speech, and thought processes.

Related terms

Cognitive Function: Refers to the ability of the brain to process thoughts, including memory, decision making, and problem-solving.

Neurological Exam: A comprehensive assessment conducted to evaluate the nervous system and detect neurological disorders.

Mood Assessment: Part of the MSE that evaluates a patient's emotional state and stability