Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 7, 2026

Assessment and Communication for People with Disorders of Consciousness
Published on: August 1, 2017
Use of the Symbol Language and Communication Battery in the physician's office for assessment of higher brain
W A Weinberg1, C R Harper, R A Brumback
1Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center-Dallas 75235, USA.
Abstract:
Higher brain functions are readily observable within the office setting. The Symbol Language and Communication Battery offers a systematic approach to evaluation, with resultant reproducible findings. It should be part of the neurologic evaluation for children who are having difficulty in their environments, with the differences in communication skills categorized into specific syndromes.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Communication in the Nursing Process I: Assessment and Diagnosis
The nursing process considers the patient's emotional and physical well-being. The process can be repeated or stopped at any point if judged essential. Assessment is the first step in the nursing process.
Higher Mental Functions of the Brain: Language
Language formation and comprehension take place in the dominant hemisphere. The dominant hemisphere is responsible for understanding the meaning of spoken, written, or sign language, as well as the ability to communicate. For most people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one. The right hemisphere, then, gives tone and emotional context to the...
Lateralization
Brain Imaging
These technologies include computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans), positron-emission tomography (PET scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Language and Cognition

