The General Neuropsychological Deficit Scale and Halstead Impairment Index: comparison of severity

To examine how the severity of brain damage is evaluated by a summary neuropsychological measure, the General Neuropsychological Deficit Scale, 25 brain-damaged patients completed the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Test Battery. From the test scores, both the General Neuropsychological Deficit Scale and the Halstead Impairment Index were calculated for each patient. Hit rates for agreement on severity were 60%, i.e., 15/25. Examination of the data suggested the General Neuropsychological Deficit Scale better reflects severity of brain damage at greater severity.