Clinical Approach to Cognitive Change

Question 1

How do minor and major neurocognitive impairments differ?

Answer 1

With minor neurocognitive impairment, the patient is cognitively impaired but able to accomplish activities of daily living independently. Major impairment interferes with independence.

Question 2

Pick bodies are associated with what type of dementia?

Answer 2

Frontotemporal dementia

Question 3

Frontotemporal dementia may be confused with other types of dementia. How can it be differentiated?

Answer 3

Early deterioration in personality, with preservation of visuospatial skills

Question 4

What type of medication has a black box warning for patients with dementia?

Answer 4

Antipsychotics to treat hallucinations, delusions, and aggression associated with their disease

Question 5

How does Lewy Body dementia differ from dementia caused by Parkinson’s disease?

Answer 5

Lewy Body dementia begins with cognitive impairment that later leads to motor issues. Parkinson’s begins with motor issues and cognitive impairment may later develop

Question 6

True/False. Delirium is a medical emergency.

Answer 6

True - must identify cause and address

Question 7

What are hallmark symptoms of delirium?

Answer 7

Reduced consciousness, poor cognition and attention, abnormal activity, altered sleep, hallucinations

Question 8

What is terminal delirium?

Answer 8

Delirium during the final 24-48 hours of life - may be treated with ketamine

Question 9

True/False. A patient with delirium may be described as having “waxing and waning of behaviors and consciousness”

Answer 9

True

Question 10

What is the recommended treatment for delirium?

Answer 10

Address the cause, hydrate, reorient, keep awake (do not sedate)