Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Basics To Know Regarding Neuropsychological Testing

By Jordan Schmidt


The brain is a complex organ. It is involved with numerous processes in the human body. Still, there are problems that can arise in this organ that impact other areas of the body. This could be changes to the actions and thoughts of a person. Neuropsychological testing is done by medical practitioners worldwide, including in New York, NY.

This is done for many purposes. The main objective is to identify issues with the brain. Tests are meant to help them decide what issues are present in patients and how they might impact their concentration, problem solving skills, reasoning and ability to remember. Multiple tests are performed during the process and it is done specifically by psychologists trained in this field of study.

The results of these tests given the doctor an overall look at how well the brain is functioning. Using this information, professionals can determine the best rehab or treatment solutions for patients. Doctors may encourage this type of testing for people who have disease that might impact brain health, including: tumors, epilepsy, AIDS, dementia or similar diseases, multiple sclerosis, Parkinsons disease and stroke.

A person may have to have this done if they have had an injury related to the brain, including concussions. They may also be asked to take the tests if they have a history of drug and alcohol abuse, substances known to alter the brain. Some patients will be given then following exposure to poisons, pollution or chemicals. ADHD patients might be tested. Doctors may even perform these in order to check on treatment effectiveness.

Preparation is necessary. Patients should bring hearing aids or glasses with them. They should make sure to get good sleep beforehand and to eat. Sleepiness and hunger can alter results. It is fundamental that people are informed of how this process is to be carried out. They should always voice questions and concerns regarding the procedure and consider the meaning of the results, how the process is carried out, why the testing is being recommended and the potential side effects.

Different tests may be listed under this category. The kind that is administered will be based on certain factors, such as brain functions that doctors want to explore. These are meant to test the limits of patients so patients should expect some degree of challenge. Most involve performing tasks or answering questions. These may be done with special objects, paper and pencil, or a computer.

Some of these tests are meant to check attention span and memory of patients. Others will test their skills when it comes to both language and speech. There are even ones that are centered on checking the reasoning, organizing and planning abilities of an individual. People commonly get nervous before taking these tests, which is to be expected.

Results provide information on the capability of a patient when it comes to remembering, thinking and reasoning. Doctors should take out time to explain the results in a way that their patients understand them clearly. Often it will take several weeks to receive the complete and official results.




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