Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the best initial method for assessing suspected Alzheimer's disease?

1. Computed tomography scan of the brain

2. Mini Mental Status Exam

3. Obtain the history from the patient and family members

4. EEG (electroencephalography)

The correct answer is: Mini Mental Status Exam

The Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE) is a widely recognized tool used for the initial assessment of cognitive function and is particularly valuable in the evaluation of suspected Alzheimer's disease. It provides a quick and standardized way to assess various cognitive domains, including orientation, registration, attention and calculation, recall, language, and the ability to follow simple commands. The results can help establish a baseline of cognitive function and identify the degree of impairment, which is critical in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, it is a practical method that can facilitate early intervention and planning for the management of the disease. While obtaining a detailed history from the patient and family members is crucial for understanding the context of cognitive decline, this option does not directly assess cognitive function in the initial stages. Imaging studies like a computed tomography scan may help rule out other causes of cognitive impairment but are not the first line for diagnosis. EEG can assist in identifying other neurological conditions but does not specifically assess cognitive function or help in diagnosing Alzheimer's disease. Thus, the MMSE stands out as the best initial method in this scenario.