MMSE - Mini-Mental State Examination Attention and Calculation Questions and Answers

Question 1

An examiner asks a patient to perform serial 7s, starting from 100. The patient responds: "93, 85, 78, 71, 64". How many points should be awarded for the Attention and Calculation section?

Accepted Answer

1 point

Answer

5 points

Answer

3 points

Answer

0 points

Question 2

If a patient is unable or unwilling to perform the serial 7s subtraction task, what is the standard alternative provided in the MMSE for this section?

Accepted Answer

Spell the word 'WORLD' backward.

Answer

Recite the months of the year in reverse order.

Answer

Count backward from 20 by 3s.

Answer

Name as many animals as possible in one minute.

Question 3

A patient is asked to spell 'WORLD' backward and gives the response: "D-L-O-R-W". Based on standard MMSE scoring, what is the correct score?

Accepted Answer

3 points

Answer

2 points

Answer

5 points

Answer

4 points

Question 4

Which of the following is a critical procedural step for the examiner when administering the Attention and Calculation section of the MMSE?

Accepted Answer

Stop the patient after they have provided five responses for the chosen task.

Answer

Administer both serial 7s and 'WORLD' backward and use the higher of the two scores.

Answer

Correct the patient immediately after each incorrect subtraction to help them get back on track.

Answer

Allow the patient to use a pen and paper to assist with their calculations.

Question 5

The Attention and Calculation section, whether using serial 7s or spelling 'WORLD' backward, primarily assesses which cognitive domain?

Accepted Answer

Attention and working memory

Answer

Long-term memory

Answer

Visuospatial ability

Answer

Executive function

Question 6

What is the maximum possible score for the 'Attention and Calculation' portion of the Mini-Mental State Examination?

Accepted Answer

5

Answer

3

Answer

7

Answer

10