Cognitive screening using a tape recorder: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether a tape recorder can be used to administer cognitive tests efficiently and yield valid results.


METHODS
Convenience sample. Administration of cognitive test materials by tape recorder and conventional technique.


METHODS
Outpatient clinic.


METHODS
Subjects from memory disorder clinic, hostel accommodation, and community.


METHODS
Responses to Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-revised, verbal fluency items from the controlled oral word association test, 10-item naming task, a construction task, and speed writing task.


RESULTS
Performances on the tape- and clinician-administered battery of tests were highly correlated. Memory impairment was accurately detected using the tape battery. Data from 30 minutes of testing via tape were obtained at the cost to the clinician of 2 to 3 minutes of scoring time.


CONCLUSIONS
Tape-administration of cognitive test material warrants further study as an efficient means of cognitive screening.
Schofield
Peter W
PW
Neuropsychiatry Service, Hunter Area Health, 72 Watt Street, PO Box 833, Newcastle NSW 2300, Australia. peter.schofield@hunter.health.nsw.gov.au
Lee
Stephen J
SJ
Davies
Graeme C
GC
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013637:Tape Recording