Assessment Tools for Geriatric Patients With Delirium, Mild Cognitive Impairment, Dementia, and Depression

摘要

Alterations in cognitive status or mood often interfere with the management of the patient's primary movement problem. As such, rehabilitation providers have a responsibility to screen and document objective findings related to mental status and mood. For example, according to the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, "The initial examination is a comprehensive screening and specific testing process that leads to a diagnostic classification. The examination process may identify possible problems that require consultation with or referral to another provider. " In addition, the Physical Therapist Clinical Performance Instrument for Students includes Performance Criterion 8-Screening, such that the student must demonstrate the ability to "Determine with each patient encounter the patient's need for further examination or consultation by a physical therapist or referral to another health care professional."