Standardized Measures
Assessment tools for cognition, consciousness, agitation, and orientation — with guidance on administration and interpretation for ICU patients.
Adapted Cognitive Exam (ACE)
A bedside cognitive screen adapted for ICU patients who are medically fragile or have limited endurance. When to use it and how to score it.
Agitated Behavior Scale
A standardized tool for rating agitation severity following acquired brain injury. Useful for tracking change over time and guiding treatment decisions.
CAM-ICU
The Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU — the gold standard for delirium screening. How to administer it and what a positive screen means for your session.
Coma/Near Coma Scale
A scale for assessing patients at the lowest levels of consciousness. How to administer, score, and use results to guide sensory stimulation interventions.
Coma Recovery Scale — Revised
The CRS-R in full — the most sensitive tool for distinguishing vegetative state from minimally conscious state. Administration and scoring guidance.
Coma Recovery Scale — FAST
An abbreviated version of the CRS-R designed for quicker administration. When to use this version versus the full scale.
Orientation Log
A structured tool for assessing orientation in patients with acquired brain injury. How it differs from informal orientation questioning.
Rancho Los Amigos Scale — Revised
The RLAS-R for classifying cognitive and behavioral recovery following brain injury. Levels, behavioral descriptors, and treatment implications for each.
SECONDs
A rapid consciousness assessment tool for patients who can't complete lengthier measures. Administration and clinical interpretation.
SLUMs
The Saint Louis University Mental Status Exam — a cognitive screening tool sensitive to mild impairment. When it's appropriate for ICU patients and how to score it.