ABSTRACT
This chapter is a comprehensive reference manual providing information on the Western Neuro Sensory Stimulation Profile (WNSSP), which is an objective, clinician-administered test that provides a detailed and standardized assessment of cognitive function in patients with traumatic brain injury, who are classified on the Rancho Los Amigos Levels of Cognitive Functioning Scale from Level II to the early stages of Level V. The WNSSP is designed to evaluate cognitive status, monitor progress and predict improvement in this patient group, which includes patients in the vegetative state and minimally conscious state. A brief history of the instrument's development is provided, along with a description of item content and administration/scoring procedures. Psychometric properties are reviewed and a critical commentary is provided. Key references are cited and in most cases the actual scale is included, giving the reader easy access to the instrument.
