Standard Tests Used During an ADHD Assessment

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder {ADHD} denotes a nuanced neurological condition with three sub types. It also has several overlapping comorbidities and symptoms appearing along a severity spectrum. These elements, along with the myths and misinformation surrounding the condition, make the diagnosis of ADHD challenging. As such, doctors rely on an ADHD assessment to determine the presence of the condition and rule out any other disorders. The following are the typical tests employed for the evaluation.

Rating Scales

These include questionnaires to pick specific symptoms that might not be picked during an initial clinical interview. Rating scales are formatted for different age groups and will pick how well the patient functions at work, school, and home. ADHD rating scales have different pros and cons. To maximize the accuracy of results, most doctors will use at least two when assessing one patient.

Tests for Specific Abilities

ADHD affects a person's ability to handle certain tasks to varying extents. The tests for specific abilities in an ADHD assessment are used to screen for processing issues and other learning disabilities. The common tests in this instance cover motor skills, language development, memory recall, and vocabulary.

Computer Tests

These are increasingly popular because patients enjoy them. Moreover, computer tests can also screen for impulsivity and attention issues present in most ADHD patients. The tests are continuous performance tests {CPT} that challenge people to pay attention. Several visual targets will appear on a computer, and the person is meant to respond to different prompts that assess his/her ability to stick to a task.

Based on a patient's issues and a doctor's concerns, an ADHD assessment will take 1-8 hours. The tests above do not all have to be conducted in a single sitting. They can be administered during different appointments so that the patient is as comfortable as possible during the tests.