the ASEPTIC technique in the MSE

The Mental State Examination (MSE) is organised and structured by using the ASEPTIC acronym. By using the acronym, you know that you are covering all the most important aspects in an orderly and systematic fashion. There is a lot to remember and it will get easier over time as you will be practising more often. I have added as much as I could in terms of description in each segment. You don’t have to remember them all but do understand the general idea per section and bear in mind to do the MSE every time you see your patient.

Note: make a mental note of your patient’s age and development level or if they have any syndromes that affect their cognition and intelligence. If there is anything on suicide or homicidal ideation in children or adolescent, they must be referred immediately for their safety.