A study of the use of baseline cognitive profiles to inform and guide appropriate Cognitive Remediation Therapy and Functional skills interventions to address deficits in occupational performance in patients with schizophrenia

Background: The aim of this study is to establish a baseline of cognitive profiles to inform and guide appropriate Cognitive Remediation and Functional skills interventions to improve occupational performance in patients with... [ view full abstract ]

Background:

The aim of this study is to establish a baseline of cognitive profiles to inform and guide appropriate Cognitive Remediation and Functional skills interventions to improve occupational performance in patients with schizophrenia.

Method:

Participants will be assessed prior to treatments using Rivermead Behaviour Memory Test, Behavioural Assessment of Dysexecutive Syndrome, and Independent Living Scales to establish baseline of cognition and functional skills. Goals will be identified collaboratively and addressed using cognitive remediation techniques and functional skills training with emphasis of both interventions on executive function skills.

Results:

Goal attainment scaling will be used to monitor improvement and to evaluate outcome of interventions. In order to investigate the effectiveness or not of the treatments, the participants will be reassessed, and results will be compared to 1st phase assessments.

Conclusion:

GAS results will be compiled and secondary outcomes will be recorded in the areas of social cognition, communications and ability to do specific tasks in their everyday activities. The treatments will be completed and then the participants will be provided with an Occupational therapy home programme. The participant’s goal attainment will then be reviewed 3 months’ later.


Application to Practice:

Although there is substantial research to support CRT practice in Mental Health; there is not enough to designate it as evidence based practice (Dixon, L. et al. 2010). Outcomes of Wykes (2011) meta-analysis indicated potential for better functional outcomes if combined with functional skills training. The functional skills sessions in this case refers to use of compensatory strategies and skills development.