What Is the Clock Test for Dementia?
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Clock Test
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The clock test is a screening test for dementia. There are different versions of the test. However, all of them involve the patient drawing the face of a clock.
Scoring
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There are different methods for scoring the test. The quickest method involves dividing the clock into four parts, then counting the correct numbers in each part.
Other Uses
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Besides being a quick and easy way to screen for dementia, the clock test is also screens for delirium and other neurological and psychiatric illnesses.
Indications
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A correctly drawn clock indicates that cognition is intact. An abnormally drawn clock indicates problems prompting further examination.
Considerations
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The clock test is only a screening test. It is not used solely to make a diagnosis. Poor results are indicative of impairment, yet further evaluation and testing is needed to diagnosis dementia.
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