A review of the literature on orientation as an indicator of level of consciousness.
OBJECTIVE
To review and compare the concepts of orientation and level of consciousness.


METHODS
Literature review, including studies of orientation as an indicator of level of consciousness, in the domains of nursing, medicine, and neuropsychology.


RESULTS
Orientation to time, place, and person as a measure of level of consciousness is poorly understood. The nursing practice of assessing orientation is common in many practice settings, yet little research has been done to validate whether it is meaningful.


CONCLUSIONS
This review lays important groundwork for future evidence-based research into the use of orientation as an indicator of level of consciousness.
Alverzo
Joan P
JP
Kessler Rehabilitation Corporation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA. jalverzo@kessler-rehab.com
D003243:Consciousness; D003244:Consciousness Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000451:nursing; D006801:Humans; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D009733:Nursing Diagnosis; D009949:Orientation