Assessment

Diagnostic Psychological Evaluation

• Typical first step after referral by attending physician or social service staff
• Personal clinical interview and mental status exam
• Chart review, family and staff consultation
• Additional testing as needed
• Written summary of findings, diagnostic impressions, and recommendation submitted

Psychiatric Evaluation

• Residents already being treated with psychotropic drugs will be evaluated by psychiatric team for medication management
• When initial diagnosis by psychologist indicates consideration of pharmacotherapy

Neuropsychological Testing

• Testing can be arranged when clinically indicated or with suspicion of organic brain impairment
• One or two testing sessions performed by psychologist
• Data can be used for determining differential diagnosis, appropriate level of care and/or discharge planning for the cognitively impaired resident