Examination of the psychiatric patient in general medical practice

ABSTRACT

In order to exclude psychological problems when examinating a patient in general medical settings; the doctor has to be conscious of the following questions Is there a psychological component to presentation; what are the factors associated with the psychological problems; the doctors should enquire not only into the well known psycho-social stressors (life events) but also the not-so-obvious factors related to cultural beliefs in the supernatural. History taking has to be both investigative and therapeutic