Critical thinking skills in the psychopathology of mental health patients

Full Answer Section

    Generating a primary and differential diagnosis using the DSM-5 and ICD-10 codes Primary diagnosis: Major depressive disorder, single episode, moderate (DSM-5 code: 296.33, ICD-10 code: F32.1) Differential diagnoses:

• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
• Bipolar disorder, depressed phase
• Substance-induced mood disorder
• Adjustment disorder with depressed mood
• Medical illness with depressive symptoms

Formulating and prioritizing a treatment plan The treatment plan for Kel should be individualized to her specific needs and circumstances. However, some general principles of treatment include:

• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can help Kel to understand and manage her symptoms, develop coping skills, and improve her overall quality of life. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are two particularly effective forms of therapy for depression.
• Medication: Antidepressant medications can be helpful for some people with depression. However, it is important to note that antidepressants can take several weeks to start working, and they can have side effects.
• Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes such as getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep can also help to improve symptoms of depression.

In Kel's case, it is important to first assess her risk of suicide. If she is at high risk, she may need to be hospitalized for safety. Once her risk of suicide has been assessed, she can begin treatment with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Here is a prioritized treatment plan for Kel:

1. Assess Kel's risk of suicide. This can be done using a screening instrument such as the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). If Kel is at high risk of suicide, she may need to be hospitalized for safety.
2. Start Kel on psychotherapy. CBT and IPT are two particularly effective forms of therapy for depression.
3. Consider starting Kel on antidepressant medication. Antidepressants can take several weeks to start working, and they can have side effects. However, they can be helpful for some people with depression.
4. Encourage Kel to make lifestyle changes. This includes getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep.

Identifying and discussing appropriate screening instruments for a patient who has suicidal ideation There are a number of screening instruments that can be used to assess suicidal ideation. One of the most commonly used instruments is the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). The C-SSRS is a brief, self-report instrument that assesses the presence and severity of suicidal ideation, suicidal behavior, and intent. Another screening instrument that can be used to assess suicidal ideation is the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). The BDI-II is a 21-item self-report inventory that measures the severity of depression. It can also be used to identify people who are at risk of suicide. If you are concerned that a patient may be suicidal, it is important to ask them directly about their thoughts and feelings about death. You should also assess their risk factors for suicide, such as a history of suicidal behavior, substance abuse, and mental illness. If you are concerned that a patient may be suicidal, you should take them to the emergency room or call 911 immediately.  

Sample Solution

   

Kel's presenting problems include:

• Lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating and completing tasks
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
• Social withdrawal
• Sadness and hopelessness
• Negative self-talk
• Suicidal ideation