Approach to Altered Mental Status

Last Updated on August 19, 2026

Patient Presentation

“My father suddenly became aggressive and talking bad words since this morning”
“Since discharge from Hospital X yesterday, my wife became more quite and answered incoherently”

History Taking

Relevant History

• Any history of fall?
• Any fever ?
• Any weakness / slurred speech / facial asymmetry
• Any hallucination

Investigations

Laboratory investigations

• Full blood count
• RP, Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphate

Imaging

• Chest X rays
• CT brain

Others

• Urine toxicology (rapid test)