Pages

Procedures In Neuropsychological Assessment New York Psychologists Follow

By Essie Osborn


Doctors may sometimes recommend a neuropsychological assessment to a patient in order to determine how his/her brain is functioning. This is in relation to some functions of the brain especially when it comes to things like; reasoning, attention span, memory, planning, language and speech skills or organizing skills among others. A picture of the brain will be taken from which its functioning can be determined. With a neuropsychological assessment New York doctors can help individuals improve their brain functioning.

The assessment will in most cases involve a number of tasks. The more tasks are done, the better because the results will be clearer. These tasks are normally referred to as cognitive tests. A simple pen and paper may be used in taking the tests or sometimes a computer program. The patient is however guided on how to respond to the given tasks. For example, one may be given a list of words then thereafter asked to remember them.

Tasks are normally arranged in a certain way whereby the easier ones come first. They then progress slowly to the difficult ones as the process continues. The ability of the patient is, however, measured when he/she is asked to go to a point where it becomes difficult to do it anymore.

There are a number of facts which doctors have to take into account when carrying out the assessments. One of these is the fact that not everyone can perform his/her best when doing something for the first time. Therefore, more than one task will be done even though they are all meant to test the same thing in relation to the memory. By doing so, the doctor is able to get an accurate picture and which is more reliable.

One should not be discouraged with the lengthy process of the program. There are times when it can take around three to four hours. This, however, makes things much easier when it comes to making a conclusion because the doctor can compare various results. From the results he/she will be able to conclude on your reasoning, remembering, concentration and problem solving abilities.

These tests are in most cases administered by specialized psychologists. They need to have undergone some special training on how to do the tests before practicing it. This, therefore, means that you need to determine the qualifications of your psychologist before enrolling for his program.

After the doctor has received the results, he/she can make a conclusion and advise you on which way forward, either treatment or a rehabilitation program. When making the decision on whether the assessment should be done or not, medical professionals are normally guided by the kind of condition that one is suffering from. This is because there are some diseases which are more likely to result to brain damage. Such include; Alzheimer, AIDS, Stroke, Epilepsy, Brain Tumor, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson disease.

There are also other situations which can lead to the administration of these tests. These involve injuries that may lead to brain damage like suffering concussions or serious brain injuries. Also, it can be recommended if one has had an alcohol or drug related abuse which may have led to the brain being damaged. You may have also been affected after being exposed to chemicals, poisons or even pollution.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment