Introduction
- To establish a more precise differential diagnosis (i.e., if applicable)
- To more effectively establish a prognosis
- To develop a plan of care that addresses the impact of identified deficits on an individual’s ability to perform tasks and function in the environment
- To develop a comprehensive rationale for the plan of care
- To identify the need for referrals
- To provide and communicate accurate and reproducible data
- To provide baseline data to document outcomes of interventions
Conversely, the consequences of failing to identify a more serious underlying neurological condition can lead to:
- An inaccurate differential diagnosis (i.e., if applicable)
- Inappropriate and unnecessary interventions
- Poor utilization of health care resources
- Unsuccessful outcomes
- Delayed treatment
- Increased morbidity and mortality
- Poor or inaccurate documentation
The health care professional should always remember:
"You only find what you look for, and you only look for what you know"
