Questionnaire Contents
The test, which can be self-administered or given by an interviewer, asks patients to rate the severity of 16 different symptoms commonly found after a mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI). Patients are asked to rate how severe each of the 16 symptoms has been over the past 24 hours. In each case, the symptom is compared with how severe it was before the injury occurred (premorbid). These symptoms are reported by severity on a scale from 0 to 4: not experienced, no more of a problem, mild problem, moderate problem, and severe problem.
The questionnaire asks the sufferer to assess the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Feelings of dizziness
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Hyperacusis (noise sensitivity)
- Sleep disturbance
- Fatigue, tiring more easily
- Being irritable, easily angered
- Feeling depressed or tearful
- Feeling frustrated or impatient
- Forgetfulness, poor memory
- Poor concentration
- Taking longer to think
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity (easily upset by bright light)
- Double vision
- Restlessness
The first three symptoms are referred to as RPQ-3, also known as RPQh (RPQ head), and are the early (immediately following injury) symptoms associated with post-concussion syndrome. The other thirteen are referred to as RPQ-13, also known as RPQgen (RPQ general), and are the late symptoms associated with the syndrome. Late symptoms can occur days to weeks after the initial injury, although headaches and dizziness can persist well into the "late stage" as well. RPQ-3 symptoms are regarded as the more "physical" symptoms, whereas the RPQ-13 set of symptoms are considered to have a more significant impact on psychic and social function. The questionnaire also includes a space for the test-taker to report any additional symptoms they may be experiencing since the onset of the injury.
Read more about this topic: Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire
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