3
Assessment
Note: none of the subsequent statements are meant to stand alone.
➤ As outlined in APA's Practice Guidelines for the Psychiatric Evaluation of
Adults (3rd edition), APA recommends (1C) that the initial assessment
of a patient with a possible psychotic disorder include:
• the reason the individual is presenting for evaluation
• the patient's goals and preferences for treatment
• a review of psychiatric symptoms and trauma history
• an assessment of tobacco and other substance use
• a psychiatric treatment history
• an assessment of physical health
• an assessment of psychosocial and cultural factors
• a mental status examination, including cognitive assessment
• an assessment of risk of suicide and aggressive behaviors.
➤ APA recommends (1C) that the initial psychiatric evaluation of a patient
with a possible psychotic disorder include a quantitative measure to
identify and determine the severity of symptoms and impairments of
functioning that may be a focus of treatment.
➤ APA recommends (1C) that patients with schizophrenia have a
documented, comprehensive, and person-centered treatment plan that
includes evidence-based nonpharmacological and pharmacological
treatments.
Elements to consider as part of the treatment plan:
• pharmacological interventions
• psychotherapies and other psychosocial interventions
• engaging support
• adherence
• addressing risks for suicide/aggression
• addressing tobacco and SUDs
• addressing other comorbid psychiatric symptoms, diagnoses
• addressing other comorbid health conditions
• pregnancy/postpartum concerns
• treatment setting
• involuntary treatment issues
• needs of patients in correctional settings
