Use of psychiatric rating instruments in Ethiopia

It is quite fascinating to see the increasing use of psychiatric rating instruments in Ethiopia in the last 3 decades, almost parallel with the growing interest world-wide. A review of those instruments used in Ethiopia was made to evaluate their applicability and quality, and to recommend ways of ensuring standard use. In this paper, the effect of culture and translation are discussed and practical ways of using the instruments in field situation, and culturally sensitive and applicable ways of translation are endorsed. Their use in general medical settings, is also stressed.