What is the name of the three-minute test used to screen for cognitive impairment?

What is the name of the three-minute test used to screen for cognitive impairment?

• A. MMSE
• B. Mini COG
• C. MoCA
• D. SLUMS

Answer: (B)

The Mini-Cog is a three-minute screen that fits quickly into a busy visit by combining a brief memory task with a clock-drawing test. The memory portion asks for three simple words to be recalled later, which gauges short-term memory. The clock-drawing part assesses visuospatial ability and executive function by having the patient draw a clock and set hands to a specified time. The scoring is straightforward: recall is given a small number of points, and the clock draw is either pass or fail; the total indicates whether cognitive impairment is likely and whether further evaluation is needed. Because it is brief, easy to administer, and less influenced by education or language, it’s a practical first step in screening older adults for cognitive concerns. If the Mini-Cog results suggest possible impairment, clinicians can then pursue a more detailed assessment like the MoCA or MMSE.

The Mini-Cog is a three-minute screen that fits quickly into a busy visit by combining a brief memory task with a clock-drawing test. The memory portion asks for three simple words to be recalled later, which gauges short-term memory. The clock-drawing part assesses visuospatial ability and executive function by having the patient draw a clock and set hands to a specified time. The scoring is straightforward: recall is given a small number of points, and the clock draw is either pass or fail; the total indicates whether cognitive impairment is likely and whether further evaluation is needed. Because it is brief, easy to administer, and less influenced by education or language, it’s a practical first step in screening older adults for cognitive concerns. If the Mini-Cog results suggest possible impairment, clinicians can then pursue a more detailed assessment like the MoCA or MMSE.