ABSTRACT
Dreamtalk is an apt term for the state “in-between” unconsciousness and consciousness. This chapter overviews the functions of the frontal lobe as they help understand a patient's dreamtalk. Classical theories of brain function propose an anterior/posterior division of roles, like that put forth by the Russian neurologist, which is neatly translated and summarised in The Working Brain. In a brief review paper, D. T. Stuss summarised four sets of processes that work together for voluntary control of behaviour: energization or sustained activation; executive processes; emotional and behavioural regulation integrates; and integrative or meta-cognitive function. In the Acute Brain Injury Unit at the National Hospital, a formal protocol in 2005 is devised to manage patients that were confused and/or agitated with environmental strategies adopted first, and medication as a second line of management.
