Diagnostic processes and disclosure: A survey of practitioners diagnosing cognitive impairment
Loading...
Date
2014-07
DOI
Open Access Location
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
New Zealand Psychological Society
Rights
Abstract
The literature reports widespread variation in practitioners’ disclosure of a dementia diagnosis, though it is currently unclear what factors influence this difference in practice. 57 New Zealand based practitioners completed an online questionnaire relating to how they reach a diagnosis of cognitive impairment and under what circumstances (if any) a diagnosis might be withheld from a client. The findings indicate that a diagnosis of cognitive impairment is never completely withheld by practitioners. All qualitative responses were analysed using conventional content analysis. Practitioners noted more positive consequences associated with disclosing a diagnosis to their clients, suggesting that providing a diagnosis is perceived by practitioners as helpful for people experiencing cognitive impairment. This study adds to the field of ethics and diagnostic disclosure in that it highlights what specific factors are considered when a practitioner chooses how to relay a cognitive impairment diagnosis to their client. Such considerations include when disclosure conflicts with the clients wishes, lack of insight, and the presence of other illnesses. Ongoing research on the subject of disclosure is needed as the number of adults who will experience cognitive impairment is predicted to rise.
Description
Keywords
cognitive impairment, diagnosis, disclosure, attitudes, ethics
Citation
NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY, 2014, 43 (2), pp. 20 - 31