1. A 24-year-old patient presents with a flattened affect and reports feeling "empty" for the past few months. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the mental status exam? A. Assess for delusional thinking B. Evaluate for signs of anhedonia C. Inquire about recent stressors D. Perform a cognitive assessment Answer: B. Evaluate for signs of anhedonia Rationale: Anhedonia, or the inability to feel pleasure, is a key symptom in depressive disorders and should be assessed when a patient presents with a flattened affect and feelings of emptiness. 2. During a mental status exam, a patient has difficulty recalling the three objects you asked them to remember 5 minutes ago. What does this suggest? A. Anterograde amnesia B. Executive function impairment C. Immediate memory deficit D. Working memory impairment Answer: A. Anterograde amnesia Rationale: Difficulty in recalling recently learned information may indicate anterograde amnesia, which affects the ability to form new memories. 3. A patient exhibits rapid speech, grandiose beliefs, and a decreased need for sleep. Which mental status exam component is most critical to assess next? A. Thought content B. Thought process C. Sensorium D. Perception