Implementing A Cognitive Screening Tool as Part of Routine Clinical Practice in Early Intervention for Psychosis...

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Cognitive difficulties are a core feature of first-episode psychosis (FEP), impacting recovery.
• Cognitive screening is not routinely integrated into early intervention services (EIS).
• Limited research exists on barriers and facilitators to cognitive screening uptake in EIS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore front-line staff experiences with implementing a cognitive screener in Irish EIS.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to the routine use of cognitive screening in FEP care.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews with 12 healthcare workers across three Irish EIS sites.
• Framework Analysis with an abductive approach, mapped to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).
• Utilized the Letter Number sequencing task as the cognitive screener.

Main Results:

• Key barriers included lack of standardized guidelines, insufficient resources, staff uncertainty, and client-related challenges.
• Facilitators comprised perceived clinical utility, need for training/support, improved client engagement, and system-level changes.
• Staff expressed readiness to integrate cognitive screening into routine practice.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians are prepared to integrate cognitive screening into routine care for FEP.
• Essential requirements include formal guidance, staff training, and practical, client-friendly tools.
• Addressing these needs can improve personalized and effective treatment for individuals with FEP.