Test Bank of Neurocognitive Disorders

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Chapter 15
Neurocognitive Disorders
1. Traditionally, delirium, dementia, and amnestic disorders were categorized as

a. resulting from complications of birth.
b. part of the normal aging process.
c. organic and then cognitive disorders.
d. as temporary conditions.
ANSWER: c
2. The three categories of neurocognitive disorders are
a. delirium, chromosomal disorders, and amnestic disorders.
b. delirium, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease.
c. Alzheimer's, delirium, and Parkinson’s disease.
d. major neurocognitive disorders, mild neurocognitive disorders, and delirium.
ANSWER: a
3. The term "organic mental disorders" is no longer used to describe cognitive disorders because
a. there is nothing "organic" about these disorders.
b. cognitive disorders are actually thought disorders.
c. the term implies that there is no effective treatment.
d. most psychological disorders have an "organic" component.
ANSWER: d
4. The cause of most cognitive disorders is .
a. the normal process of aging
b. brain dysfunction
c. alcohol/substances
d. medication side effects
ANSWER: b
5. The conditions that are now called neurocognitive disorders typically cause impairment in all of the following primary
abilities EXCEPT .
a. memory
b. perception
c. dreaming
d. attention
ANSWER: c
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Chapter 15
6. Cognitive disorders are often associated with changes in .

a. behavior and personality
b. anxiety and depression
c. levels of paranoia
d. all of the above
ANSWER: d
7. From the following choices, the age group most likely to use prescription medications is .
a. infants and young children
b. children and adolescents
c. middle-aged adults
d. older adults
ANSWER: d
8. Which of the following is true of delirium? Delirium:
a. impacts approximately 20% of older adults admitted into acute care facilities.
b. is associated with confusion and disorientation.
c. comes on gradually.
d. all of the answers are correct.
ANSWER: d
9. Designer drugs such as Ecstasy, “Molly,” and “bath salts”:
a. impact the ability to focus.
b. can cause delirium.
c. indicate the complex interaction between physical and psychological health.
d. all of the answers are correct.
ANSWER: d
10. Developing delirium in the hospital is associated with what further health risk?
a. 1.5 times as likely to die that year
b. 10 times as likely to die that year
c. H eart disease
d. Cancer
ANSWER: a

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11. Grandpa is admitted to critical care during one of his delirium episodes. Approximately what is Grandpa’s increased
risk of mortality in the next year?
a. Twice the risk
b. 2.5 times the risk
c. 5 % more risk
d. 25% more risk
ANSWER: b
12. Impaired consciousness and cognition during the course of several hours or days defines .
a. delirium
b. neurocognitive disorder
c. Alzheimer's disease
d. Pick’s disease
ANSWER: a
13. Which of the following is NOT a typical cause of delirium?
a. Poison
b. Drug use
c. Infections
d. Allergic reactions
ANSWER: d
14. Mr. Smith (age 72) is brought to the hospital emergency room. His son explains that his father woke up this morning
and was "not himself." Mr. Smith appears confused, agitated, and a bit frightened. He does not know his own name
and cannot recognize his son. Mr. Smith's son reports that his father had been completely fine with no symptoms prior
to that morning. Mr. Smith appears to be suffering from .
a. neurocognitive disorder due to Lewy Body disease
b. neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease
c. delirium
d. amnestic disorder
ANSWER: c
15. Lauren goes to her usual family doctor after experiencing her first bout with delirium. What questions is the doctor
likely to ask:
a. Are you or have you currently withdrawn from alcohol use?
b. Have you been tested for an infection?
c. Have you had an accident or otherwise been in a position to injure your brain?
d. All of the answers are correct.
ANSWER: d

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16. Which of the following groups is likely to show delirium?

a. Older adults
b. AIDS patients
c. Cancer patients
d. All of these
ANSWER: d
17. Among the elderly, delirium
a. occurs because drugs are eliminated from their system quickly.
b. accounts for a significant number of falls that cause hip fractures.
c. is rarely caused by improper medication use.
d. is easily attributed to a limited number of causes.
ANSWER: b
18. The symptoms of delirium tend to develop
a. very slowly, over the course of several years.
b. very quickly, over the course of a few hours to a few days.
c. moderately slowly, over the course of several months.
d. either very quickly or very slowly, depending on the cause.
ANSWER: b
19. The symptoms of delirium tend to subside
a. very slowly, over the course of several years.
b. relatively quickly.
c. moderately slowly, over the course of several months.
d. very slowly, if they ever subside at all.
ANSWER: b
20. Substance-induced delirium is a major problem for the elderly because
a. they are more likely to take prescription medications than other age groups.
b. their bodies are less able to process and eliminate drugs.
c. improper use of medication is likely to have serious side effects.
d. all of the above.
ANSWER: d

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21. Which of the following individuals is MOST likely to develop delirium?

a. Joe (age 76) takes multiple medications for various medical conditions. Two new medications have just been
prescribed for him, and he has already made a mistake taking the first dose.
b. Jean (age 89) is in good physical and mental health. This morning, she has a little bit of a head cold, but has not
yet taken any medication for it.
c. Mark (age 12) woke up with a low-grade fever from the viral infection that has been going around his class this
past week.
d. Sarah (age 40) was in a minor car accident but claims to feel fine.
ANSWER: a
22. Delirium is generally treated with .
a. antibiotic medication
b. benzodiazepine medication
c. antidepressant medication
d. a treatment based on the specific cause of the delirium
ANSWER: d
23. Delirium brought on by withdrawal from alcohol or other drugs is generally treated with
a. rest and reassurance.
b. antipsychotic medication.
c. antidepressant medication.
d. restraining the patient until the withdrawal symptoms are over.
ANSWER: b
24. Approximately what percentage of chronic heavy alcohol users show some cognitive impairment? .
a. 10% to 25%
b. 25% to 35%
c. 50% to 70%
d. almost 100%
ANSWER: c
25. Typical psychosocial intervention for a patient with delirium includes
a. restraining the patient to prevent self-harm.
b. placing the person in a new environment.
c. reassurance and surrounding with familiar belongings.
d. excluding the patient from any medical decision to avoid increased anxiety.
ANSWER: c

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26. What is MOST successful in assisting people who are susceptible to delirium?
a. Psychosocial approach
b. Preventive efforts such as patient counseling
c. Antipsychotic medications
d. Rest and reassurance
ANSWER: b
27. The gradual deterioration of brain functioning that affects judgment, memory, language, and other cognitive processes is
called _______________.
a. major neurocognitive disorder
b. delirium
c. amnestic disorder
d. mental retardation
ANSWER: a
28. One of the major differences between major neurocognitive disorder caused by Alzheimer's disease and major
neurocognitive disorder caused by depression is that Alzheimer's type major neurocognitive disorder
a. is generally reversible.
b. is not reversible.
c. involves a slow increase in symptoms.
d. leads to a rapid decline in abilities.
ANSWER: b
29. All of the following are possible causes of dementia EXCEPT _______________.
a. Alzheimer's disease
b. drugs and alcohol
c. infection or depression
d. food additives and preservatives
ANSWER: d
30. The most common cause of major neurocognitive disorder is .
a. a history of substance abuse
b. Alzheimer's disease
c. improper use of prescription drugs
d. syphilis
ANSWER: b

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31. One major difference that is useful in the diagnosis of major neurocognitive disorder or delirium is that
a. major neurocognitive disorder symptoms develop slowly over time, and delirium symptoms develop quickly.
b. major neurocognitive disorder symptoms are usually associated with underlying medical conditions, and delirium is
usually the result of other factors.
c. the initial symptoms of major neurocognitive disorder are generally more severe than the symptoms of delirium.
d. the symptoms of major neurocognitive disorder involve memory, but the symptoms of delirium are more likely to
involve expressive language.
ANSWER: a
32. At the age of 50, Debra has begun to receive quite a bit of teasing from her family about being "absentminded." The
truth is that Debra has been hiding the fact that each week she seems to remember less and less. For the last month,
she has been getting lost while driving home from work. Lately, Debra has been relying on a hand-drawn map to get
home. She has started having trouble recognizing the faces of people at work and frequently forgets why she started
to do something. Debra appears to be developing .
a. delirium
b. amnestic disorder
c. neurocognitive disorder
d. medically induced dementia
ANSWER: c
33. People with neurocognitive disorder sometimes suffer from agnosia, which is defined as the inability to
_________.
a. use language
b. understand language
c. recognize and name objects
d. remember events and places
ANSWER: c
34. The inability to recognize objects is called .
a. agnosia
b. alexia
c. anhedonia
d. apraxia
ANSWER: a

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35. Which of the following is TRUE of major neurocognitive disorder?

a. The number of new cases per year is decreasing.
b. More men than women have major neurocognitive disorder.
c. The financial costs of major neurocognitive disorder are decreasing.
d. Major neurocognitive disorder rates are increasing as people live longer.
ANSWER: d
36. Which of the following statements about major neurocognitive disorder is FALSE?
a. Globally, one new case of major neurocognitive disorder is identified every 30 seconds.
b. Worldwide, the cost of major neurocognitive disorder is about $315 billion per year.
c. Nearly half of the cases of major neurocognitive disorder are of the Alzheimer's type.
d. The rate of new cases doubles with every 5 years of age after age 75.
ANSWER: a
37. When a person has major neurocognitive disorder, he or she may also experience delusions, depression, agitation,
aggression, and/or apathy, all of which are due to
a. progressive deterioration of brain functioning.
b. frustration experienced by these patients as they lose their cognitive abilities.
c. neither of these.
d. both of these.
ANSWER: d
38. The prevalence of major neurocognitive disorder in adults between the ages of 65 and 74 is .
a. around .5%
b. less than 1%
c. hovering at 3%
d. a little more than 5%
ANSWER: d
39. The prevalence of major neurocognitive disorder in adults over the age of 85 is .
a. 1% to 5%
b. 10% to 15%
c. 20% to 40%
d. more than 50%
ANSWER: c

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40. In the United States alone, the cost of caring for patients with Alzheimer's type major neurocognitive disorder is
estimated to be about .
a. $100 thousand
b. $100 million
c. $100 billion
d. $100 trillion
ANSWER: c
41. All of the following are types of neurocognitive disorder EXCEPT
a. vascular neurocognitive disorder.
b. substance/medication-induced neurocognitive disorder.
c. neurocognitive disorder due to mononucleosis.
d. neurocognitive disorder due to prion disease.
ANSWER: c
42. The definitive diagnosis of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease can currently be made based
solely on ______________.
a. cognitive testing
b. brain scans
c. autopsy results
d. behavioral analysis
ANSWER: c
43. How is neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease usually diagnosed?
a. MRI findings
b. Brain biopsy
c. Functional brain scan
d. Simplified mental status exam
ANSWER: d
44. Neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease is characterized by
a. multiple cognitive deficits that progress over time.
b. a few severe cognitive deficits that develop gradually and steadily.
c. multiple cognitive deficits that develop quickly.
d. a few severe cognitive deficits that develop quickly.
ANSWER: a

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45. Which of the following is used for a definitive diagnosis of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease?
a. Psychological testing
b. A mental status exam
c. Reported observations of the patient by family members
d. None of the above
ANSWER: d
46. In the advanced stages of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease, a phenomenon called "sundowner
syndrome" occurs in which cognitive disturbances tend to
a. improve as the day goes on.
b. become worse toward evening.
c. come and go during the course of the day.
d. peak around mid-day.
ANSWER: b
47. Although the sample size is small, the results of a study that looked at the writings of a group of Catholic nuns
(Snowden et al., 1996), suggest that the development of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease might be
predicted in early life by analyzing the present in an individual's writing.
a. errors
b. word usage
c. idea density
d. emotional tone
ANSWER: c
48. The progress of cognitive deterioration in Alzheimer’s disease is most rapid during the stages of the disease.
a. early
b. middle
c. late
d. advanced
ANSWER: b
49. The progression of cognitive deterioration in neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease is
a. slow during early stages and late stages, and rapid during middle stages.
b. rapid during early and late stages, and slow during middle stages.
c. slow and progressive throughout the individual's life.
d. slow in the early stages and rapid during late stages.
ANSWER: a

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50. Recent research on Alzheimer’s Disease reveals that:

a. it is likely to go away on its own.
b. some people with Alzheimer’s actually increase their cognitive functioning.
c. early diagnosis can potentially impact the development of the disease.
d. All of the answers are correct.
ANSWER: c
51. What is the approximate average survival time of a patient diagnosed with neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's
disease?
a. 4 years
b. 8 years
c. 15 years
d. 20 years
ANSWER: b
52. Symptoms of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease typically appear during the .
a. 40s and 50s
b. 50s and 60s
c. 60s and 70s
d. 70s and 80s
ANSWER: c
53. Research suggests that Alzheimer’s disease accounts for about of the cases of neurocognitive disorder.
a. 15%
b. 25%
c. 50%
d. 75%
ANSWER: c
54. Which of the following individuals has the greatest risk of developing neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's
disease?
a. Paul, who is wealthy and well educated.
b. Rena, who completed college although she has an average IQ.
c. Jason, who is extremely bright but never finished college.
d. Carrie, who dropped out of school when she was very young.
ANSWER: d

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55. One hypothesis to explain the observed differences in the rate of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease for
individuals of varying educational level is that
a. the abilities acquired through formal education create a “mental reserve” that helps offset the symptoms of the
illness as they progress.
b. the type of mental activity associated with formal education places an additional burden on the brain that makes
symptoms worse once a person has the disorder.
c. knowledge acquired through formal education helps one avoid exposure to environmental stimuli that might
influence the disorder.
d. the type of work that most college graduates pursue is less likely to expose the individual to the stressors
associated with the disorder.
ANSWER: a
56. In regard to neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease, the biological “cognitive reserve” hypothesis
suggests that
a. skills acquired through formal education can actually enhance the early symptoms of the illness.
b. the more synapses one develops throughout life, the more neuronal death required before the person becomes
impaired.
c. individuals with neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease never had reserve neurons.
d. neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease is caused by a lack of formal education.
ANSWER: b
57. What is the biological version of the theory that states that formal education helps insulate people from the effects of
neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease?
a. Mind-body hypothesis
b. Neuronal network theory
c. Cognitive reserve hypothesis
d. Cortical activity theory
ANSWER: c
58. Higher levels of education are associated with
a. the prevention of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease.
b. a delay in the onset of symptoms of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease.
c. a slow course of deterioration after neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease first starts.
d. the rapid onset of symptoms in neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease.
ANSWER: b

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59. The theory that the more synapses a person develops, the more neurons must die before the signs of neurocognitive
disorder due to Alzheimer's disease are apparent is called the .
a. cognitive reserve hypothesis
b. synaptic deterioration hypothesis
c. oversight theory
d. genetic hypothesis
ANSWER: a
60. According to the most recent research, which of the following statements is TRUE concerning ethnic background and
the development of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease?
a. Japanese, Nigerian, and Amish individuals have lower prevalence of the disorder.
b. The illness is found in roughly the same numbers across all ethnic groups.
c. Educated European ethnic groups have a lower rate of getting the disease.
d. Native Americans have a slightly higher rate of the disorder.
ANSWER: b
61. Which of the following statements is TRUE with regard to the rate of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's
disease for different demographic groups?
a. Males and certain racial groups appear to have lower rates of the disorder.
b. No differences are found in the rate of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease by gender, but some
racial differences have been noted.
c. No differences are found in the rate of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease by race, but women
appear to have a higher rate of the disorder than men.
d. No differences in the rate of the disorder by race or gender have been noted.
ANSWER: c
62. Which of the following statements is TRUE about vascular neurocognitive disorder?
a. The prevalence rate is 25% for those over age 80.
b. The risk for women is slightly higher than men.
c. The outcome is similar to that of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease.
d. The onset is about the same as for neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease.
ANSWER: c
63. There are fewer studies on vascular neurocognitive disorder because
a. it is less serious than neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease.
b. of its lower incidence rates as compared to Alzheimer’s disease.
c. its cause is clear and not in need of research.
d. none of the above
ANSWER: b

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64. A key difference between vascular neurocognitive disorder and Alzheimer’s disease is/are .
a. rate of onset
b. prevalence
c. gender distribution
d. all of the above
ANSWER: d
65. Why are the symptoms of vascular neurocognitive disorder so different in each patient?
a. It is not known why patients with vascular neurocognitive disorder have different symptoms.
b. The symptoms relate to the area of the brain damaged.
c. The symptoms depend upon the person's other medical conditions.
d. Patients tend to be elderly and easily confused.
ANSWER: b
66. The risk of developing vascular neurocognitive disorder is
a. greater for women than men.
b. greater for men than women.
c. equal for men and women.
d. greater for men in Western cultures, but equal for men and women in other cultures.
ANSWER: b
67. Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding the different types of neurocognitive disorder?
a. All forms of neurocognitive disorder have the same onset, symptoms, and course.
b. Vascular neurocognitive disorder has a more rapid onset and patients suffer a much more rapid demise than
with the other forms of neurocognitive disorder.
c. Vascular neurocognitive disorder has a more rapid onset and results in fewer deficits than
neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease.
d. Vascular neurocognitive disorder has a more rapid onset than neurocognitive disorder due to
Alzheimer’s disease, although the course and outcome are similar.
ANSWER: d
68. All of the following are causes of neurocognitive disorder EXCEPT .
a. HIV
b. vitamin B12 deficiency
c. pneumonia
d. chronic traumatic encephalopathy
ANSWER: c

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69. Neurocognitive disorder caused by HIV appears to be due to .

a. the HIV infection itself
b. side effects of medications used to treat HIV
c. opportunistic infections that occur in HIV patients
d. chemical imbalances in the brain
ANSWER: a
70. The neurocognitive disorder experienced by HIV patients primarily affects areas of the brain in the .
a. meninges
b. hindbrain
c. inner areas of the brain
d. brain stem
ANSWER: c
71. Neurocognitive disorder due to HIV is more likely to cause _________________ than neurocognitive disorder due
to Alzheimer’s disease.
a. death
b. short-term memory loss
c. long-term memory loss
d. severe depression
ANSWER: d
72. The differing patterns of impairment associated with neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease and
neurocognitive disorder due to HIV are primarily attributable to
a. the different areas of the brain affected.
b. the immune response to the virus in HIV patients.
c. psychosocial differences in the lives of the typical patients with each disorder.
d. unexplained causes.
ANSWER: a
73. Early symptoms of HIV-induced neurocognitive disorder include:
a. seizures.
b. forgetfulness.
c. susceptibility to brain infection.
d. all of these answers are correct.
ANSWER: b

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74. The introduction of new medications for AIDS (e.g., HAARTs) has ________________ the percentage of patients
who develop neurocognitive disorder.
a. increased
b. decreased
c. eliminated
d. had no effect on
ANSWER: b
75. If Jane's neurocognitive disorder is caused by a process that has damaged her brain's dopamine pathways, it can be
assumed that this condition is caused by ____________________________ .
a. head trauma
b. Parkinson's disease
c. Huntington's disease
d. neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease
ANSWER: b
76. The involuntary limb movements in Huntington’s Disease are known
as: _________________________________________________ .
a. infarctions
b. delirium tremors
c. c horea
d. chronic tremors
ANSWER: c
77. Parkinson’s disease is associated with _____________________ .
a. subcortical neurocognitive disorder
b. delirium tremens
c. delirium
d. development of a Trendelenburg gait
ANSWER: a
78. Parkinson’s disease affects _____________________________ .
a. 1% to 3% of people
b. 5% of people
c. 10% of people over the age of 90
d. It cannot be estimated how many people have Parkinson’s Disease
ANSWER: a

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79. Only some of the patients diagnosed with ___________________ and ___________________ go on to
develop neurocognitive disorder.
a. Alzheimer's; Huntington's disease
b. Pick's disease; Huntington's disease
c. Huntington's disease; Parkinson's disease
d. Parkinson's disease; Pick's disease
ANSWER: c
80. Compared to most disorders, Huntington's disease is very unusual because it is
a. the result of one gene.
b. influenced by many genes.
c. always a cause of neurocognitive disorder.
d. associated with subcortical impairment.
ANSWER: a
81. The disorder that causes a form of neurocognitive disorder called Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is a variant of
a. Huntington's disease.
b. Pick's disease.
c. neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disorder.
d. bovine spongiform encephalopathy (”mad cow disease”).
ANSWER: d
82. The symptoms of substance/medication-induced neurocognitive disorder are most similar to the symptoms observed in
_______________.
a. vascular neurocognitive disorder
b. neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease
c. Huntington's disease
d. HIV-induced neurocognitive disorder
ANSWER: b
83. The symptoms of substance/medication-induced neurocognitive disorder are generally associated with
a. toxic effects of the substances.
b. temporary impairment in brain functioning.
c. permanent brain damage.
d. poor diet and self-care behaviors.
ANSWER: c

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84. The research finding of a negative correlation between smoking and neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease
is generally interpreted to mean that
a. research findings are sometimes in error.
b. nicotine protects against neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease for most people.
c. smoking may be helpful in protecting people at high risk for Alzheimer's disease.
d. smoking may shorten the lives of smokers so they do not live long enough to develop neurocognitive disorder due
ANSWER: d
85. Genetic research suggests that Alzheimer’s disease is linked to
a. Down syndrome through chromosome 21.
b. Parkinson’s Disease through a single gene.
c. depression through chromosome 12.
d. Huntington’s disease due to a genetic mutation.
ANSWER: a
86. Which disorder is associated with the formation of neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques in the brain?
a. Huntington's disease
b. Pick's disease
c. neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease
d. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
ANSWER: c
87. The neurofibrillary tangles associated with neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease are best described a s
a. tangled, strand-like filaments in brain cells.
b. tangled, strand-like filaments throughout the nervous system.
c. gummy protein deposits in the cortex.
d. gummy protein deposits throughout the nervous system.
ANSWER: a
88. The amyloid plaques that accumulate in the brain of patients with neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease
are best described as
a. tangled, strand-like filaments.
b. gummy protein deposits.
c. plaques of dead nerve cells.
d. mineral deposits.
ANSWER: b

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89. Research into the causes of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease indicates the influence of
a. multiple genes.
b. a single gene.
c. environmental toxins.
d. high levels of aluminum.
ANSWER: a
90. The late onset form of Alzheimer’s disease is related to chromosome ________________ .
a. 21
b. 14
c. 19
d. 12
ANSWER: c
91. A gene with a 100% chance of causing Alzheimer disease is identified as __________________ .
a. deterministic
b. susceptible
c. relative
d. functional
ANSWER: a
92. If the presence of a gene means you have a 100% chance of developing the disease, the gene is
considered ________________.
a. deterministic
b. reductionistic
c. susceptible
d. absolutist
ANSWER: a
93. Some studies suggest that deposits of ___________ cause the cell death associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
a. amyloid beta
b. fat
c. cholesterol
d. protein
ANSWER: a

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94. A possible external cause of neurocognitive disorder involves __________________ .

a. repeated head trauma
b. constant stress
c. sleep deprivation
d. smoking
ANSWER: a
95. One theory about the development of neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease suggests that the
formation of solid waxy proteins in the brain causes the disorder in a process similar to
a. cholesterol build-up in blood vessels causing cardiovascular disease.
b. vascular spasms causing migraines.
c. head trauma causing neuronal death.
d. formation of scar tissue following an injury.
ANSWER: a
96. The gene responsible for producing amyloid precursor protein (APP) appears to explain the development of
a. neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease in general.
b. late onset neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease.
c. non-Alzheimer's type of neurocognitive disorder that tends to affect unique populations, such as those with strong
family history of the disorder.
d. early onset neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease and the higher frequency of the disorder in Down
Syndrome patients.
ANSWER: d
97. The greater the number of apolipoprotein (apo E4) genes an individual possesses, the
a. more likely the individual is to develop vascular neurocognitive disorder.
b. less likely the individual is to develop vascular neurocognitive disorder.
c. more likely the individual is to develop neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease.
d. less likely the individual is to develop neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease.
ANSWER: c
98. Apolipoprotein (apo E4) is associated with the development of neurocognitive disorder because apo E4
a. helps insulate neurons from various toxins.
b. results in neurofibrillary tangles.
c. causes aluminum to concentrate in the brain.
d. helps transport amyloid protein through the bloodstream.
ANSWER: d

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99. In regard to neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease, having two genes for apolipoprotein (apo E4)
a. increases the risk of developing neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease, but does not relate to
the age of onset.
b. decreases the risk of developing neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease and raises the average age
of onset.
c. decreases the risk of developing neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease but lowers the average age
of onset.
d. increases the risk of developing neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease and decreases the average
age of onset.
ANSWER: d
100. The condition called dementia pugilistica is diagnosed in _______________.
a. baseball players
b. boxers
c. bowlers
d. basketball players
ANSWER: b
101. Individuals who have the apo E44 gene ______________ of developing Alzheimer's disease.
a. are at increased risk
b. have nearly a 100% chance
c. are not at risk
d. may or may not be at risk
ANSWER: a
102. All of the following are considered deterministic genes EXCEPT ___________.
a. presenilin-1
b. presenilin-2
c. apo E44
d. ß-amyloid precursor
ANSWER: c
103. Which of the following environmental stressors appears to be a significant factor in the later development of
neurocognitive disorder (including that caused by Alzheimer's disease)?
a. Smoking
b. Low blood pressure
c. Repeated head trauma
d. Exposure to high levels of aluminum
ANSWER: c

Name: Class: Date:
Chapter 15
104. Recent research regarding the biological processes and genetic factors associated with neurocognitive disorder due
to Alzheimer’s disease is best viewed as
a. absolute fact.
b. preliminary findings that need to be studied further.
c. hypotheses that have yet to be tested.
d. interesting theories regarding influences, though of little potential use for finding a way to predict and treat
neurocognitive disorder.
ANSWER: b
105. The risk for developing neurocognitive disorder is influenced by all of the following psychological or social factors
EXCEPT
a. cigarette smoking.
b. participation in sports such as boxing.
c. personality traits such as extroversion.
d. level of formal education.
ANSWER: c
106. Psychological and social influences involved in neurocognitive disorder
a. help determine the onset and course.
b. are direct causes.
c. have no influence.
d. have not been studied.
ANSWER: a
107. Treatment for Alzheimer's disease utilizes drugs that prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine including all of the
following EXCEPT
a. paroxetine (Paxil).
b. tacrine hydrochloride (Cognex).
c. donepezil (Aricept).
d. galantamine (Reminyl).
ANSWER: a
108. Appropriate treatment goals for a patient recently diagnosed with neurocognitive disorder include all of the following
EXCEPT
a. reverse the neurological damage already done.
b. improve lifestyle to prevent further neurological damage.
c. reduce the current rate of decline.
d. learn strategies to compensate for existing limitations.
ANSWER: a

Name: Class: Date:
Chapter 15
109. The primary treatment for neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease is
a. antidepressant medication such as SSRIs.
b. diet and exercise.
c. vitamin B-12 supplements.
d. medications such as Cognex or Aricept.
ANSWER: d
110. Patients with neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease benefit from medications that work by
a. preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine.
b. enhancing the level of dopamine.
c. preventing the reuptake of serotonin.
d. unknown mechanisms.
ANSWER: a
111. What is the typical response to medication that can be expected for a patient with neurocognitive disorder due
to Alzheimer’s disease?
a. About one year without symptoms
b. Doubling of life expectancy
c. Temporary improvement in abilities
d. Relief of physical but not cognitive symptoms
ANSWER: c
112. John was recently diagnosed with neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease. After researching his treatment
options, he decides to try medication and attempt to make the most of his remaining abilities. John plans to stay as
physically and mentally active as possible for as long as he can and to use compensation strategies if necessary. His
decision
a. makes little sense as there are more aggressive biological treatments that are effective.
b. seems reasonable given the fact that there are no effective treatments available.
c. ignores the additional demands that his decision will ultimately place on his caregivers.
d. makes little sense since intensive psychosocial intervention has been shown to be effective.
ANSWER: b
113. Which of the following are problems associated with the medications used to treat neurocognitive disorder due
to Alzheimer's disease?
a. Abilities only improve to the same point where they were 6 months prior to treatment.
b. Any gains in ability are temporary.
c. Many patients discontinue medication because of severe side effects and expense.
d. All of these are significant problems with the medications used to treat neurocognitive disorder due
ANSWER: d

Name: Class: Date:
Chapter 15
114. What is the primary goal of most psychosocial treatments for neurocognitive disorder?
a. Relieve depression
b. Enhancing the lives of those with the disease, as well as their family members.
c. Treat the anxiety associated with knowing that the disorder is progressive
d. Enhance family functioning
ANSWER: b
115. During the late stages of neurocognitive disorder, the _________________ probably experiences the greatest need
for psychosocial treatment.
a. caregiver
b. patient
c. family
d. healthcare provider
ANSWER: a
116. Recent studies suggest that Ginkgo biloba has _____________ on memory.
a. little or no impact
b. a mild impact
c. a moderate impact
d. a major impact
ANSWER: a
117. Of the following, which is NOT one of the potential consequences associated with caregiving for patients with
neurocognitive disorder?
a. Anxiety
b. Depression
c. Contagion
d. Elder abuse
ANSWER: c
118. In DSM-IV-TR, the organic mental disorders were relabeled as cognitive disorders because
a. almost all disorders involve brain dysfunction.
b. delirium and dementia involve cognitive symptoms while the other disorders don’t.
c. delirium and dementia occur primarily in the very young.
d. both a and b.
ANSWER: d

Name: Class: Date:
Chapter 15
119. If the findings from the study regarding the writings of a group of Catholic nuns (Snowden et al., 1996) are correct,
which of the following individuals is most likely to eventually develop neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease?
a. John, whose writing is very descriptive and a bit bizarre.
b. Mary, whose writing has many religious themes.
c. Maureen, whose writing is mostly about animals.
d. Lisa, whose writing describes events in very brief terms.
ANSWER: d
120. Some types of Down Syndrome predispose the individual to developing ________________.
a. dementia pugilistica
b. Parkinson's disease
c. Alzheimer's disease
d. vascular neurocognitive disorder
ANSWER: c
121. What is the main reason that we do NOT have an effective treatment for neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s
disease?
a. The disorder affects the elderly who generally have many other health problems.
b. We do not have a way to replace extensive brain damage.
c. The amount of treatment research is considerably less for neurocognitive disorder than for other disorders.
d. The cause is genetic.
ANSWER: b
122. Describe delirium, its typical causes, and how it is treated.
ANSWER: Delirium is characterized by impaired consciousness and cognition during the course of hours or days.
People with delirium appear confused, disoriented, and out of touch. Their memory, language, and
attention are impaired. Delirium increases with age and is often related to medical conditions such as
cancer, HIV, drug use, poisons, and head injuries. Antipsychotic drugs can decrease symptoms, and
psychosocial interventions can help patients and their families cope with emotional and mental changes
caused by the disease.
123. With organic physiological causes, why are neurocognitive disorders often studied by psychologists rather than solely
by medical doctors?
ANSWER: The consequences of a neurocognitive disorder often include profound changes in a person’s behavior
and personality. Intense anxiety, depression, or both are common, especially among people with major
neurocognitive disorder. In addition, paranoia is often reported, as are extreme agitation and aggression.
Families and friends are also profoundly affected by such changes. Imagine your emotional distress as a
loved one is transformed into a different person, often one who no longer remembers who you are or
your history together. The deterioration of cognitive ability, behavior, and personality and the effects on
others are major concerns for mental health professionals.

Name: Class: Date:
Chapter 15
124. What is the prevalence of Alzheimer’s Disease and why is it difficult to measure?
ANSWER: Globally, it is estimated that one new case of major neurocognitive disorder is identified every 7
seconds. The methodology for estimating the number of those suffering from major neurocognitive
disorder has resulted in sometimes diverging numbers. This is due to several factors. It is nearly
impossible to detect Alzheimer’s until the patient is deceased. Memory loss is one symptom of
Alzheimer’s that can often be attributed to other factors such as recent surgeries and other health
concerns. Finally, in-home and familial care can delay diagnosis.
125. Discuss cross-cultural differences in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease.
ANSWER: Early research seemed to suggest that certain populations (such as those with Japanese, Nigerian,
certain Native American, and Amish backgrounds) were less likely to be affected. Similarly,
prevalence rates of Alzheimer’s disease in low and middle-income countries have also been reportedly
lower than higher income countries. More recent work indicates, however, that some of these
differences may be due to lower numbers in those who seeks assistance (possibly due to stigma as well
high levels of social care from family members), as well as differences in education and how the
disorders were measured. For example, individuals in low and middle-income countries did not meet
DSM criteria for the disorder. They did not have the social or occupational interference since their
families were taking care of them.
126. Describe the differences and similarities between neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease and vascular
neurocognitive disorder. Why it is not always possible to determine the actual cause of neurocognitive disorder while
the patient is alive?
ANSWER: Neurocognitive disorder is a condition characterized by the gradual deterioration of brain function that
affects thought, judgment, memory, and language. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of
neurocognitive disorder. People with this disease experience difficulty forming new memories, eventually
have trouble remembering older information, and show deficits in orientation, judgment, and language
problems as well. Physiologically, the brains of Alzheimer’s patients show plaques and
tangles. Vascular neurocognitive disorder refers to memory loss due to stroke, which interrupts the flow
of oxygen and nutrients to brain tissue and causes physical damage to neurons. The extent of damage
is a function of the amount and location of the damage, which occurs more suddenly than in Alzheimer’s
disease but can include disruptions in language, thought, memory, and motor functions. Because the
symptoms of these two disorders overlap, autopsies have to be done in order to make a definitive
diagnosis.
127. Explain how neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease is usually treated. Include information about medication
and psychosocial therapies. How would you characterize the success of the currently available treatment options for
neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease?
ANSWER: A number of drugs have been developed to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Most of these medications work
by preventing ACH breakdown. These drugs slow the progression of the disease, but are not a cure.
Vitamins and herbal remedies have been used with mixed results, and antidepressants and antipsychotics
can be used to manage the emotional and cognitive symptoms of the disorder. Psychosocial approaches
focus on improving the lives of patients by teaching them memory tricks and promoting cognitive
stimulation.

Name: Class: Date:
Chapter 15
128. How does a holistic psychosocial intervention best serve someone with a cognitive impairment?
ANSWER: The recommended first line of treatment for a person experiencing delirium is psychosocial
intervention. The goal of nonmedical treatment is to reassure the individual to help them deal with the
agitation, anxiety, and hallucinations of delirium. The inclusion of a family member in the care for
patients with delirium, such as overnight stays with the patient, may be a great comfort to the patient.
Similarly, familiar personal belongings such as family photographs may also be an easy and comforting
intervention. Also, a patient who is included in all treatment decisions retains a sense of control that can
aid patients cope with anxiety and agitation due to the delirium Some evidence suggests that this type of
support can also delay institutionalization for elderly patients.
129. Explain the relationship that has been observed between formal education and the development of neurocognitive disorder
due to Alzheimer’s disease. What theoretical and neurological explanations have been offered for this observation?
ANSWER: People with higher education levels seem to function more effectively than other patients with the same level
of brain dysfunction. Theoretically, they have more complex neuronal pathways and so have greater
cognitive resources at their disposal. Referred to as the cognitive reserve hypothesis, this model suggests
that the more synapses a person develops over the course of their life the more neuronal death must take
place before the signs of neurocognitive disorder would be evident. It is theoretically possible, therefore, that
more educational achievement will “strengthen” the brain against this illness by creating greater
interconnections of neurons. This will delay the onset of symptoms in some cases.
130. Describe recent research on the prevention of neurocognitive disorders. Give an example.
ANSWER: It is very difficult to study prevention efforts for neurocognitive disorders because of the need to follow
individuals for long periods to see whether the efforts are effective. One major study conducted in
Sweden—where socialized medicine provides complete medical histories of all residents—looked at
many risk and protective factors. Risk factors include things that increase the chance of having
neurocognitive disorder. Protective factors include things that decrease the risk. Researchers looked at
the medical records of 1810 participants who were older than 75 years and followed them for about 13
years. Through interviews and medical histories, they came to three major conclusions: control your
blood pressure, do not smoke, and lead an active physical and social life! You cannot change your
genetics, however. Additional prevention research is ongoing, and there may be other potentially fruitful
research areas that can lead to successful prevention.

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Name: Class: Date:

1. ​Traditionally, delirium, dementia, and amnestic disorders were categorized as

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6. ​Cognitive disorders are often associated with changes in .

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16. ​Which of the following groups is likely to show delirium?

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21. ​Which of the following individuals is MOST likely to develop delirium?

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35. Which of the following is TRUE of major neurocognitive disorder?​

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50. Recent research on Alzheimer’s Disease reveals that:​

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69. Neurocognitive disorder caused by HIV appears to be due to .​

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94. A possible external cause of neurocognitive disorder involves __________________ .

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125. ​Discuss cross-cultural differences in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease.

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1. Traditionally, delirium, dementia, and amnestic disorders were categorized as

6. Cognitive disorders are often associated with changes in .

16. Which of the following groups is likely to show delirium?

21. Which of the following individuals is MOST likely to develop delirium?

35. Which of the following is TRUE of major neurocognitive disorder?

50. Recent research on Alzheimer’s Disease reveals that:

69. Neurocognitive disorder caused by HIV appears to be due to .

125. Discuss cross-cultural differences in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease.