On December 1 of 1934 at the order of the head of the Medical Section of the NKVD Directorate, we, the undersigned, carried out a medical examination of Citizen Nikolaev, L. V. on the premises of Clinic No. 1 [Medical Section, NKVD], with the following results.

The subject is over thirty years of age, height below average, dysplastic [abnormal body type], bow-legged, body clean, no abrasions or bruises. The subject was carried in on a stretcher at 7:00 P.M. in a state of hysteria, with very limited awareness of his surroundings and some motor disturbance. Under the influence of vibration of a tuning fork and pressure on the eyeballs, together with verbal reprimands, the subject changed position, began to breathe more calmly, and spoke disjointed phrases, mentioning several names. At this point we noticed an outflow of mucus from the right nostril, minor burning of the left nostril [the result of dosing with smelling salts], and significant drooling. By 9:00 P.M. he had come to himself somewhat, which made it possible to bathe and shower him and change his clothes. During this time he carried on sensible conversation, answered questions immediately, but not always to the point. Examination found a pulse of ninety, rhythmic, effective action, reflexes normal, […] pupils of correct form, average diameter, prompt reaction to light, sensitivity to pain intact. [The subject’s] constant theatrical behavior was noted.

On the basis of the above we conclude that Citizen Nikolaev L. V. was in a temporary reactive hysterical state with limited awareness of his surroundings, but later grasped his situation. […] There were two phases of the reactive state—mild muscle spasms and emotive poses of a theatrical character. There was undoubtedly [an element of] exaggeration, and following that even simulation, that is, an understanding of his situation and intention to confuse those around him for his own purposes. Future repetition of hysterical attacks is possible.