Development of a computer-based battery designed to screen adults for neuropsychological impairment

The initial step in the development of a new computer-based neuropsychological testing system is described. A new hardware-software system and a screening battery consisting of an orientation task and five cognitive tests has been implemented. This novel screening battery is designed for use in identifying individuals among exposed groups who may require more extensive follow-up neuropsychological evaluation. Sophisticated, but currently available, and relatively inexpensive hardware and software technology are employed, introducing an improvement over existing computer-based batteries. Use of a digitized speech production device for producing instructions facilitates testing of illiterate subjects, use of auditory stimulus materials, and relatively easy translation of the testing instructions to other languages. Use of a pen-based notebook computer enables responding by the subject in a manner that is both natural and analogous to that used in existing paper-and-pencil testing instruments. Five neuropsychological tests were developed to cover a range of cognitive domains: 1) verbal list learning and recognition memory, 2) visual memory span, 3) conceptual and motor tracking, 4) psychomotor speed and accuracy, and 5) delayed verbal recognition. The screening instrument has been pilot-tested for feasibility of use among outpatients at an occupational medicine clinic and among community-dwelling older adults. This instrument is intended to provide a standardized efficient, cost-effective method for widespread use in occupational medicine and public health to detect and track subclinical neurotoxic effects and to prevent additional harmful exposure. Additional aspects of development of the computer-based testing system are discussed.