Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Exam

What are the score ranges for the SLUMS mental status exam indicating dementia?

1. High= 20, 0-10= dementia

2. High= 30, 0-20= dementia

3. High= 25, 0-30= dementia

4. High= 35, 0-15= dementia

The correct answer is: High= 30, 0-20= dementia

The correct score ranges for the Saint Louis University Mental Status (SLUMS) exam, which is used to assess cognitive function and screen for dementia, indicate that a score of 30 is the maximum possible. In this context, a score of 0-20 signals the presence of dementia. This classification serves as a guideline to determine cognitive impairment levels, particularly in detecting dementia among older adults. A high score, such as 30, reflects normal cognitive functioning, while scores lower than this threshold represent varying degrees of cognitive decline. Specifically, the score range of 0-20 denotes significant impairment and aligns closely with criteria used in clinical settings to identify individuals who may benefit from further evaluation for dementia. Understanding these score ranges is vital for healthcare professionals when screening patients, ensuring that appropriate interventions and support can be provided based on the cognitive status determined by the SLUMS exam.