Two methods of baseline cognitive testing were evaluated in high school athletes. The authors
administered the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Testing (ImPACT), a commonly used
computerized concussion test, as well as more traditional paper and pencil neuropsychological measures
to a group of high school athletes.
The study found that the ImPACT and paper and pencil tests measure
different aspects of cognitive functioning. Their findings indicate that assessing cognitive functioning
with either ImPACT or paper and pencil measures alone may not provide the most comprehensive
information. Using a hybrid model that incorporates both computerized testing and neuropsychological
testing may be essential to fully evaluate an athlete’s cognitive functioning for return to play decisions.
Citation:
Danielle M Ransom, Luis Ahumada, Ernest K Amankwah, Jennifer M Katzenstein, Neil A Goldenberg, P
Patrick Mularoni, Assessing Preseason Baseline Cognitive Functioning in High School Student Athletes:
A “Hybrid” Approach, Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology, 2022;, acac023,