Jefferson is undergoing a psychiatric evaluation and reports feeling disconnected from his environment since beginning medication for hypertension. Which DSM-IV axis should the clinician use to document his medical condition?
Explanation
In the DSM-IV multiaxial system, Axis III is specifically used to record general medical conditions that may be relevant to the individual's mental health. Since Jefferson's experience of detachment is associated with his hypertension medication, the clinician would document this medical information on Axis III. Axes I and II relate to psychiatric diagnoses, Axis IV covers psychosocial factors, and Axis V assesses overall functioning. Axis X does not exist in the DSM-IV framework.