Clinical validation of the Allen's Cognitive Level Screen in acquired brain injury

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background The evaluation of functional cognition is a central concern in clinical practice. However, there are few standardized or validated tools, and many of them take too long, requiring screening tests. Aims To explore the convergent validity of the ACLS-5 with other cognitive screening test and functional independence test in a sample of people with acquired brain injury. Moreover, to examine the prediction of ACLS-5 on functioning and cognitive performance outcomes. Materials and methods A cross-sectional design was applied following the guidelines of the STROBE checklist. A consecutive sample of people with acquired brain injury was recruited from rehabilitation centers. A cognitive screening test and daily living activity tests were implemented, such as ACLS-5, MoCA, Barthel, and FIM+FAM. Data were analyzed using non-parametric methods. In addition, a structural analysis and simple regression models were performed. Results Eighty patients with chronic acquired brain injury, with a mean age of 52, were recruited. All tests are significantly related to the ACLS-5 score, a moderate effect size for MoCA (ρ = 0.36), and a strong effect size for the other two (ρ > 0.50). Conclusions ACLS-5 predicts functional and cognitive performance quickly and effectively, optimizing assessment time and avoiding mental fatigue or physical exhaustion.