Psychiatric classification: what’s involved?

Psychiatric diagnosis and treatment have a long history, with classification systems used to diagnose and treat patients. The American Psychiatric Association and World Health Organization categorize mental health problems, with the DSM and ICD being the most well-known systems. However, there is debate about the efficiency and potential harm of psychiatric classifications. The diagnosis and […]

Psychiatric theories: types?

Psychiatric theories have evolved with the development of medicine and technology, with some focusing on the entire human mind and others on specific behaviors or mental health disorders. Theories can be influenced by cultural conceptions and are often based on observations of the brain rather than experiments. Looking back at past theories can help address […]

What’s the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale?

The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) is a test used by mental health professionals to evaluate psychiatric symptoms, often with patients who have severe psychological impairment. It has 18-24 sections with a rating scale of 1-7, and is used for diagnosis and to assess patient progress. Observation by the healthcare professional is critical, as well […]

Types of psychiatric disorders?

Psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, affect a person’s thoughts and behaviors due to mental illness. These disorders require specialized treatment from psychiatrists or psychologists. Symptoms vary, but can include delusions, hallucinations, and erratic behavior. PTSD can develop after a traumatic event, while borderline personality disorder, anorexia, and generalized anxiety disorder […]

Psychiatric travel nurse: what’s the job?

Psychiatric travel nurses provide mental health care to patients on a temporary basis, including home medical care. They work with physicians to develop treatment plans and can identify mental irregularities. They may work in different locations for several months and must be adaptable and work well with others. A psychiatric travel nurse provides quality mental […]

What’s a comorbid psychiatric disorder?

Comorbid psychiatric disorders occur when a patient has more than one mental illness. Substance abuse patients have a high incidence of comorbid disorders, often using drugs to self-medicate. Diagnosing and treating comorbid disorders is difficult, as symptoms can overlap. Treatment for comorbid disorders is the same as for individual disorders. A comorbid psychiatric disorder is […]

Psychiatric Comorbidity: What is it?

Psychiatric comorbidity is when a patient is diagnosed with a mental disorder and another health condition. The term was first used in the medical community in the 1970s and is now used by psychiatrists to refer to cases where a patient meets the diagnostic criteria for more than one recognized mental disorder. Studying psychiatric comorbidity […]

Psychiatric Malpractice: What is it?

Psychiatric malpractice occurs during psychiatric treatment and patients must prove direct harm caused by the practitioner’s negligence. Cases vary from mental to physical harm. Patients must provide evidence of doctor-patient relationship and harm caused. Malpractice can occur from wrong medication, misdiagnosis, or neglect. Lack of action can also lead to harm and lawsuits. Psychiatric malpractice […]

Psychiatric Disability: What is it?

Psychiatric disabilities are mental disorders that interfere with daily tasks and are protected under equal employment opportunity laws. Anxiety and mood disorders are common types, and medication side effects can also be considered a disability. Employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees with psychiatric disabilities. A psychiatric disability is a psychological or mental disorder or […]

Psychiatric Abuse: What is it?

Psychiatric abuse can take many forms and can even stem from treatment plans. It is a serious problem that can harm vulnerable individuals seeking help. Psychologists and psychiatrists have a lot of power, but with that power comes responsibility. Reports of psychiatric abuse include mental torture, intentional prescribing of wrong drugs, and sexual abuse. Victims […]

Psychiatric Morbidity: What is it?

Psychiatric morbidity is the physical and psychological deterioration caused by mental or psychological conditions. It is measured by the number of people affected, types of diseases, and duration of the disease. Researchers use questionnaires and diagnostic interviews to understand the prevalence of psychiatric conditions in social groups and determine factors that contribute to them. Understanding […]

Psychiatric residency: what’s involved?

Psychiatry residency programs provide classroom training, clinical experience, and professional development tools. The duration varies by country, with the US program lasting four years. Residents gain exposure to different types of psychiatric practice and can pursue electives in specific areas of interest. Upon completion, graduates are ready to take certification exams in the field of […]

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