You arrive on scene to find a patient with an altered mental status. You quickly scan the scene.  Which of the following items will help to point you in the right direction in finding a cause of the altered mental status?

The scene survey can lead to some very important clues as to what might be going on with your patient.  Medications for specific medical conditions can lead you in the correct direction.  Not only does it give you the patient’s past medical history, but it tells where to start your assessment and investigation of the patient’s signs and symptoms.  An unkempt house and smells can provide an indication of a patient’s lifestyle and ability to care for themselves.