Assessment Of Cognitive Function

Question 1

Why should cognitive function be assessed? (4)

Answer 1

To find out:
What is going on - nature of the impairment
What is going to happen - predict recovery, risk and adjustment
What will help - type of intervention or adaptation
Has functioning changed - recovery and effectiveness of intervention

Question 2

How is cognitive function assessed at bedside? (4)

Answer 2

Observation: is patient alert, orientated in time, person & place
Interaction: organised history and awareness
Cognitive screens: brief standardised cognitive screening test
Collateral: speaking to other team members - and importantly family!

Question 3

What is the purpose of a cognitive screen

Answer 3

Detect possible cognitive impairment
Stage + track degree of impairment

Important: not a diagnostic tool

Question 4

What is a mini mental state examination (MMSE)

Answer 4

Cognitive screening test used to check for cognitive impairment (useful for screening dementia in clinical setting)