Can we use our own picture cards ? Won't any 9 pictures do ?
No. The Westmead PTA Scale was developed using a set of 9 cards in an attempt to measure post-traumatic amnesia in a standard fashion. This allows one to compare patients from different hospitals. Therefore, it is advisable to use the standard cards and procedures.
Where can we get the picture cards and how much do they cost ?
Picture cards and instructions are available from the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Westmead Hospital, Westmead NSW 2145. They can be purchased by sending a cheque for $30.
Why does the patient have to score 12 out of 12 for 3 consecutive days, with the picture cards changing, before they can be deemed to be out of PTA ?
This criterion was established to avoid the common occurrence of 'an island of memory' in post-traumatic amnesia. Thus, the period of 3 days was settled upon in order to make sure that the patient's performance on the Westmead PTA Scale is consistent (see the section on Russell's Rules for further details).
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