What might a nurse ask to assess a patient’s mental status?

To assess a patient's mental status, it is vital to evaluate their orientation to time, place, and person. This method helps determine if the patient is aware of where they are, what day it is, and who they are, which are foundational aspects of cognitive function. A patient who is oriented to these elements typically has intact cognition and is functioning within normal parameters, while disorientation may indicate a problem requiring further assessment.

The other options do not directly measure mental status. Questions about diet and exercise habits focus on physical health rather than cognitive function. Inquiries into past medical history can provide relevant information for overall health but do not directly assess the current mental state. Lastly, assessing mobility and coordination relates more to physical capabilities and neurological function without addressing the patient's cognitive status directly. Therefore, focusing on orientation questions is the most appropriate method for evaluating mental status.