11 - Organizing and interpreting test findings

Abstract

This chapter summarizes the sequence of activities that can be applied to organizing and interpreting the test findings. These activities include computing the raw test scores, comparing the test scores with normative data to obtain standardized scores, compiling the data summary sheet, determining estimates of pre-morbid abilities, interpreting test scores, identifying the neuropsychological profile and disorders associated with this profile, and identifying change on reevaluation. Total raw scores for each test are computed by using the standardized instructions provided in the test manuals, which are then compared with the normative data to determine if the scores are within normal limits for the sample from which the normative data were derived. The next step is to summarize the raw test and standard scores by entering them in a data sheet. The data sheet includes columns for entering the raw scores, the standard scores provided in the test manual, the z-score conversions of the standard scores, premorbid estimates of abilities, interpretations of test scores, and qualitative comments concerning test performance. Determining an estimate of premorbid ability is a critical step, since this estimate is used as a standard to determine whether the patient has experienced significant decline in neuropsychological function. It is recommended that estimates of premorbid intelligence be applied as one basis for estimating abilities within specific neuropsychological domains. Each test score is then interpreted within the context of the normative data or within the context of the patient's premorbid abilities.