Cognition Flashcards
1
Q
What is an acquired injury?
A
An injury to the brain that is not hereditary, congenital, degenerative, or induced by birth trauma
2
Q
True or false: Acquired injury occurs after birth.
A
True
3
Q
What are the two types of acquired brain injury?
A
- Traumatic brain injury
- Non-traumatic brain injury
4
Q
What are the causes of acquired brain injury?
A
- Tumors
- Infections
- Trauma
- Surgery
- Stroke
- Hypoxia & Anoxia
- Aneurysms
5
Q
What are the potential causes of traumatic brain injury?
A
- Blast injuries
- Gunshot wounds
- Assault
- MVC
- Falling
6
Q
What are the potential causes of right hemisphere dysfunction?
A
- CVA
- Tumor
- Degenerative processes
7
Q
What are the potential causes of dementia?
A
- Alzheimers DZ
- Frontotemporal dementia
- PPA
8
Q
How can tumors affect cognitive-communication?
A
They can press on brain tissue, affecting cognitive-communication depending on type, size, and location
9
Q
What can infections like encephalopathy cause?
A
They can cause inflammation or damage to brain tissue, disrupting communication and cognitive skills
10
Q
What are examples of toxic/metabolic disorders that can cause acquired brain injury?
A
- Drug or alcohol use
- Medication reactions
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Kidney or liver failure
11
Q
What is hypoxia?
A
Reduced oxygen to the brain
12
Q
What is anoxia?
A
Complete lack of oxygen
13
Q
What are the areas of cognition?
A
- Attention/Information processing
- Memory
- Executive Function
- Social Cognition/Pragmatics
14
Q
True or false: All cognitive domains can be affected in people with traumatic brain injury.
A
True
15
Q
What is attention?
A
The capacity to focus on particular stimuli over time and to flexibly manipulate the information
16
Q
What does attention allow a person to do?
A
- Concentrate on relevant information
- Sustain focus over time
- Shift attention between tasks
- Process and manipulate information in real time
17
Q
What is focused attention?
A
The ability to respond to a specific stimulus
18
Q
What is sustained attention?
A
The ability to maintain attention over time
19
Q
What is selective attention?
A
The ability to focus on one stimulus while ignoring competing distractions
20
Q
What is alternating attention?
A
The ability to switch focus between two different tasks or stimuli
21
Q
What is divided attention?
A
The ability to pay attention to two things at once
22
Q
What is orientation?
A
A person’s awareness of who they are, where they are, when it is, and what’s happening
23
Q
What is the Stroop Color and Word Test used for?
A
Testing selective attention
24
Q
What is the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) used for?
A
Testing divided attention
25
What is the Test of Everyday Attention (TEA) used for?
Testing comprehensive attention
26
What is information processing?
The ability to take in/comprehend information through recognition of stimulus and integration into new concepts
27
What does the efficiency aspect of information processing refer to?
How easily and effectively a person can take in and respond to information
28
What does the speed of processing aspect of information processing refer to?
How quickly someone can respond to incoming information
29
What is the amount of information processing aspect?
The length or quantity of information presented at once
30
What is the accuracy aspect of information processing?
The completeness of understanding; errors can occur when processing is incomplete
31
What is the relationship between attention and memory?
Attention is the foundation of memory; if attention is impaired, memory is affected
32
What is memory?
The ability to attend to, process, store, and recall information
33
What are the stages of memory?
* Attention
* Encoding
* Storage
* Retrieval
34
What is long-term memory?
A permanent store of information with thought to have unlimited capacity
35
What is short-term memory?
What's 'on your mind' right now; has limited capacity and short duration
36
What is working memory?
Short-term storage of information plus active manipulation of that information
37
What is the clinical distinction between short-term memory and working memory?
* Working memory is temporary and manipulative
* Short-term memory is solely about storage
38
What are internal strategies in working memory?
* Rehearsal
* Visual imagery
* Verbal elaboration
* Chunking
* Associations
* Mnemonics
39
What is rehearsal in memory strategies?
Repetition of information to keep it in working memory or transfer it to long-term memory
40
What is visual imagery in memory strategies?
Creating mental images related to the information to remember
41
What is verbal elaboration in memory strategies?
Expanding upon information by adding details or connecting it to existing knowledge
42
What are mental images in memory?
Visualizations related to information to aid recall
## Footnote
For instance, visualizing a bright red apple when trying to remember the word 'apple' enhances memory recall.
43
What is verbal elaboration?
Expanding on information by adding details or connecting it to existing knowledge
## Footnote
For example, elaborating on the word 'dog' by thinking about its breed or color.
44
What are associations in memory?
Linking new information to something already known
## Footnote
For example, associating 'apple' with a famous logo or a personal memory.
45
What are mnemonics?
Acronyms, phrases, or rhymes created to aid memory
## Footnote
An example is 'PEMDAS' for the order of operations in math.
46
What are external strategies in working memory?
Tools that help manage information outside the brain
## Footnote
Examples include calendars, day planners, and sticky notes.
47
What is verbal memory?
The ability to store and retrieve language-based information
## Footnote
It involves words, spoken language, and written texts.
48
Which hemisphere of the brain is associated with verbal memory?
The left hemisphere
## Footnote
It plays a dominant role in language comprehension and speech production.
49
What is visual memory?
The ability to store and recall information related to images and spatial layouts
## Footnote
The right hemisphere is more involved in processing visual information.
50
What is declarative memory?
Memories involving conscious recollection of information
## Footnote
Declarative memory is divided into episodic and semantic memory.
51
What is episodic memory?
Storage and recall of specific events or experiences tagged in time and place
## Footnote
Examples include remembering a birthday party or a trip.
52
What is semantic memory?
Storage of facts and general knowledge not tied to specific events
## Footnote
Examples include knowing that Paris is the capital of France.
53
What is metamemory?
Awareness of one's own memory functioning
## Footnote
It helps monitor and control memory processes, such as recognizing when you might forget something.
54
What is prospective memory?
Remembering to initiate future intentions or actions
## Footnote
Examples include remembering to take medication at a specific time.
55
What is nondeclarative memory?
Memory that doesn't require conscious effort to recall
## Footnote
It includes procedural memory, emotional associations, and priming.
56
What is procedural memory?
Memory responsible for storing skills and motor tasks
## Footnote
Examples include brushing teeth or driving a car.
57
What are emotional associations in memory?
Linking feelings with people, places, or events
## Footnote
The amygdala processes these emotions, affecting memory recall.
58
What is priming in memory?
Exposure to a stimulus increases the likelihood of a related response
## Footnote
For example, seeing 'yellow' makes you recognize 'banana' faster.
59
What is executive function?
A set of cognitive processes enabling planning, decision-making, and problem-solving
## Footnote
These skills are crucial for managing oneself and resources effectively.
60
What is problem solving?
The ability to analyze a situation, identify solutions, and choose the best action
## Footnote
It includes recognizing problems and adapting strategies as necessary.
61
What does organization (planning) refer to?
The ability to structure tasks and information for successful goal completion
## Footnote
Planning involves determining what needs to be done and organizing steps.
62
What is initiation/motivation in executive function?
The ability to begin tasks in a timely manner and be motivated to start
## Footnote
This is critical for smooth communication and interaction.
63
What is inhibition/impulse control?
The ability to monitor and resist inappropriate thoughts and behaviors
## Footnote
It's important for maintaining social and professional relationships.
64
What is self-monitoring/self-correction?
Tracking one's own behavior and recognizing errors for adjustment
## Footnote
This helps maintain accuracy and coherence in actions or speech.
65
What does awareness of deficits refer to?
Recognizing one's limitations and the need for strategies to compensate
## Footnote
This can lead to self-advocacy and seeking help.
66
What is executive dysfunction?
Impairment in cognitive conditions affecting executive function
## Footnote
Subtle dysfunction may require other forms of evaluation beyond standardized tests.
67
What is cognitive rehabilitation for executive function?
Strategies and interventions to enhance executive skills
## Footnote
This can include training on specific skills and using external aids.
68
Are executive functions unitary?
No, they are interrelated but have specific roles
## Footnote
A person may excel in one area while struggling in another.
69
What is the first step in problem-solving?
Identify the problem
## Footnote
This involves understanding what's going wrong and what needs to change.
70
What is the importance of considering alternatives in problem-solving?
To explore multiple solutions instead of settling on the first idea
## Footnote
This enhances the chances of finding the best solution.
71
What does evaluating the feasibility of solutions involve?
Assessing whether solutions are practical and considering potential consequences
## Footnote
This helps in selecting the most effective solution.
72
What is the final step in the problem-solving process?
Evaluate the results
## Footnote
This determines if the chosen solution worked or if adjustments are needed.
73
What is the first step after choosing the best solution?
Put it into action by following through with the plan.
## Footnote
Example: Cleaning the charging port involves physically cleaning it and then testing the charger again.
74
What should you do after applying a solution?
Evaluate the outcome to determine if the solution worked.
## Footnote
Example: After cleaning the charging port, test whether your phone is charging again.
75
What does reasoning involve?
Using mental processes to think through situations, make decisions, and solve problems.
76
Define logical thinking.
Making decisions or solving problems based on a structured, rational process.
77
Give an example of logical thinking in decision-making.
Weighing the consequences of not taking medication against the discomfort of taking it.
78
What does appreciation of relationships refer to?
Understanding how different factors or variables are connected and influence one another.
79
Provide an example of appreciation of relationships.
Recognizing that taking medication leads to improved health despite side effects.
80
What is practical judgment?
Applying reasoning skills to real-world situations to make sound, pragmatic decisions.
81
What is planning in cognitive processes?
Thinking ahead, setting goals, and organizing actions to achieve a desired outcome.
82
Define the ability to think ahead.
Considering future needs and outcomes to plan necessary actions.
83
How does understanding future consequences of present actions help in planning?
Recognizes that today's actions will influence future goals.
84
What is metacognition?
The ability to think about your own thinking processes.
85
What are the key components of metacognition?
* Awareness of Your Thoughts
* Monitoring Thoughts
* Using Information to Improve Thinking and Behavior
86
What do executive functions help us manage?
Our thoughts, emotions, and actions to achieve specific goals.
87
Define control of thoughts or feelings in executive functions.
Regulating thoughts and emotions based on situational demands.
88
What does a sense of time and sequencing information involve?
Understanding time and organizing information logically.
89
What is abstract thinking in relation to executive functions?
Stepping outside immediate experiences to understand broader concepts.
90
What is social cognition/pragmatics?
Cognitive processes that help us understand and interpret social information.
91
What is Theory of Mind?
The ability to understand that others have beliefs, emotions, and intentions different from one's own.
92
How does Theory of Mind help in predicting behavior?
It allows us to infer how others might behave based on their mental states.
93
What is required for competent communication?
The ability to take the perspective of your conversational partner.
94
Give an example of Theory of Mind in practice.
Inferring that a quiet friend may be feeling sad and offering support.
95
What is auditory comprehension?
The ability to understand spoken language.
96
How can cognitive impairments affect reading comprehension?
They can hinder making inferences or analyzing details in a text.
97
What writing difficulties can cognitive impairments cause?
Issues with organization, spelling, and grammar.
98
What is a common example of misinterpretation due to cognitive impairments?
Misunderstanding social cues or sarcasm.
99
What are the primary deficits in cases of language injury?
* Auditory comprehension
* Reading comprehension
* Expressive language
* Writing
100
What characterizes mild communication impairments?
They can significantly impact daily interactions despite being mild.
101
What does cognition refer to in the context of injury?
Widespread brain damage affecting multiple cognitive areas.
102
What are communication impairments typically secondary to?
Cognitive impairments affecting underlying cognitive processes.
103
What is the nature of communication impairments in cognitive impairments?
Communication impairments are secondary to cognitive impairments.
104
What cognitive functions can be affected in traumatic brain injury (TBI)?
Cognitive functions affected can include:
* Attention
* Memory
* Executive functions.
105
What problems with attention can impact communication?
Difficulty maintaining attention, processing information, and organizing thoughts.
106
How can memory impairments affect communication?
They can lead to difficulties in retaining information or recalling previously learned language.
107
What are executive functions?
Executive functions include planning, organizing, and regulating behavior.
108
What is social cognition?
Social cognition involves understanding social cues and can affect pragmatic language.
109
What are mild communication impairments in cognitive impairments?
Mild communication impairments can include:
* Word retrieval difficulties
* Delays in speech
* Tangential speech.
110
What factors influence the assessment of cognitive impairments?
Factors include:
* Diagnosis
* Age
* Severity level
* Education
* Occupation
* Cultural background.
111
What is the purpose of establishing a baseline in cognitive assessments?
To understand the patient's current cognitive abilities and monitor progression or response to treatment.
112
What should treatment goals be based on?
Goals should be realistic, personalized, and focused on functional improvements.
113
What does the Rancho Levels of Cognitive Functioning assess?
It helps determine the stage of recovery after brain injury.
114
What is the role of family education in cognitive rehabilitation?
Family education helps families understand behaviors and outcomes, which is key to generalization and support.
115
What should be considered when assessing cognitive function in older adults?
Use assessments sensitive to age-related decline.
116
What is dynamic assessment?
Dynamic assessment allows clinicians to see how a patient responds to support and cueing.
117
What are some observations that can provide insight into cognitive functioning?
Look for:
* Inattention
* Distractibility
* Perseverative behaviors
* Frustration or fatigue.
118
What is the significance of family interviews in cognitive assessments?
They provide insight into the patient's baseline, routines, preferences, and challenges.
119
What should you assess during the initial evaluation of a patient?
Orientation to person, place, time, and situation.
120
What types of questions are useful in gathering information from patients?
Open-ended questions, closed questions, and impression questions.
121
What are the three types of cognitive impairments mentioned?
Types include:
* Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
* Right Hemisphere Disorder (RHD)
* Dementia.
122
How can cultural background affect cognitive assessments?
Language, beliefs, and familiarity with testing can affect performance and validity.
123
What are the levels of severity in cognitive impairments?
Levels include:
* Mild
* Moderate
* Severe.
124
What should be considered when determining the frequency and duration of therapy?
Factors include severity and complexity of impairments and patient's endurance.
125
What is the purpose of using culturally validated tools in assessments?
To ensure performance validity and avoid misinterpretation of results.
126
Fill in the blank: The Rancho Levels of Cognitive Functioning ranges from Level I (no response) to Level ______.
X (purposeful/appropriate behavior).
127
What is the importance of establishing strengths and weaknesses in cognitive rehabilitation?
To maximize rehabilitation potential by building on strengths and compensating for weaknesses.
128
True or False: Education background can impact test performance and interpretation.
True.
129
What is dementia?
A progressive condition that affects memory, language, reasoning, and communication.
## Footnote
Alzheimer's disease is a common type of dementia.
130
What are the three severity stages of cognitive impairment?
* Mild: Minor forgetfulness or trouble concentrating
* Moderate: Trouble with conversations or organizing thoughts
* Severe: Disorientation and inability to communicate effectively
## Footnote
These stages help to assess the impact on daily life.
131
What does the Rancho Los Amigos Levels of Cognitive Functioning assess?
It assesses cognitive functioning from Level I (no response) to Level X (purposeful, appropriate with support).
## Footnote
This scale is specific to traumatic brain injury (TBI).
132
What are common strengths in cognitive-communication skills?
* Familiar routines or tasks
* Social greetings or automatic phrases
* Long-term memories, especially from early life in dementia
## Footnote
Strengths can vary by individual and diagnosis.
133
What are common weaknesses in cognitive-communication skills?
* Attention and concentration
* Short-term memory
* Word-finding or organizing speech
* Understanding abstract language
* Staying on topic during conversation
## Footnote
These weaknesses can significantly impact communication.
134
What is the recommended supervision for mild cognitive impairment?
Occasional reminders or support in complex situations may be needed.
## Footnote
Supervision levels vary based on cognitive ability.
135
What is the recommended supervision for moderate cognitive impairment?
Supervision is recommended for daily tasks and community safety.
## Footnote
This level of supervision is crucial for ensuring safety.
136
What is the recommended supervision for severe cognitive impairment?
Continuous supervision may be required for safety, communication, and emotional support.
## Footnote
Severe impairment often leads to significant challenges.
137
What are effective cuing techniques in medical or therapy settings?
* Use simple, direct language
* Offer visual or written cues
* Give step-by-step instructions
* Use gestures or demonstrations
* Allow extra time to process
* Offer positive reinforcement
## Footnote
These techniques support communication and understanding.
138
What are the outcome goals for TBI/RHD patients?
Improvement is possible, especially with therapy and support, depending on injury severity.
## Footnote
Younger individuals or those with mild injuries tend to recover better.
139
What are the outcome goals for dementia patients?
Focus is on maintaining current abilities and quality of life as the condition progresses.
## Footnote
Goals may include improving attention and memory in daily tasks.
140
What typical goals may include for cognitive-communication therapy?
* Improving attention and memory in daily tasks
* Increasing ability to follow simple instructions
* Enhancing conversational skills and social interaction
* Supporting independence with structured routines
## Footnote
These goals help guide therapy and support strategies.
141
How should information be adjusted for caregivers with limited experience?
* Use everyday terms
* Include visual aids and real-life examples
* Provide repetition and practice tips
## Footnote
Tailoring information helps enhance caregiver understanding.
142
How should information be adjusted for caregivers with healthcare or therapy experience?
* Provide specific terminology
* Share reports using standardized scales
* Discuss therapy approaches and long-term planning in depth
## Footnote
This ensures effective communication and planning.
