96138 Psychological or neuropsychological test administration and scoring by technician, two or more tests, any method; first 30 minutes

Name of the Procedure:

Psychological or Neuropsychological Test Administration and Scoring by Technician, Two or More Tests, Any Method; First 30 Minutes

Summary

This procedure involves the administration and scoring of two or more psychological or neuropsychological tests by a technician. It is a structured way to assess a patient's mental and cognitive functions using various standardized methods.

Purpose

The procedure is aimed at understanding and diagnosing conditions related to cognitive, emotional, and psychological health. The goals are to identify specific mental health issues, cognitive impairments, or psychological conditions to guide treatment plans.

Indications

• Cognitive impairments (e.g., memory issues, attention deficits)
• Emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety)
• Behavioral problems
• Neurological conditions (e.g., dementia, traumatic brain injury)
• Pre-surgical evaluations for certain surgeries

Preparation

• Patients might be advised to get a good night's sleep.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments typically required.
• Any relevant previous medical or psychological assessments should be shared with the technician.

Procedure Description

1. The technician explains the purpose and nature of the tests.
2. The patient completes multiple psychological or neuropsychological tests.
3. Tests may include questionnaires, problem-solving tasks, memory exercises, and other standardized methods.
4. The technician oversees the administration to ensure accuracy and helps clarify any instructions.
5. Upon completion, the technician scores the tests according to standardized criteria.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes for the first two or more tests.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, mental health facility, or a hospital's neuropsychology or psychology department.

Personnel

• Trained psychological or neuropsychological testing technician

Risks and Complications

• There are minimal risks associated with this testing procedure.
• Patients may experience slight fatigue or stress from the testing process.
• Discomfort related to prolonged focus or emotional response to questions.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of cognitive or psychological conditions.
• Informs and guides therapy and treatment plans.
• Helps in monitoring the progress of existing conditions.

Recovery

• There is no recovery time needed.
• Patients can return to their usual activities immediately after testing.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and treatment plans.

Alternatives

• Clinical interviews with a psychologist or psychiatrist.
• Self-report questionnaires without technician administration.
• Neuroimaging studies if neurological pathology is suspected.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a range of emotions, from curiosity to stress, during testing.
• Comfort measures, such as breaks or clarifications, are provided to ensure an optimal testing experience.
• Pain management is not typically required as this is a non-invasive procedure.