BASIC DO'S AND DONT'S

How to Fill in the scales

Each symptom or problem is rated only once; for example, aggressive gahviour is rated under item 1; it is not included in decidiing ratings of later items even if it is associated with them (e.g. with alcohol or drug misuse; or with agitated depression).

When to Rate HoNOS

The 12 item scale is completed directly after the interview or assessment with the patient. The scales are not used as a chechlist or semi-structured interview, but form a brief record of severity.

Information to include in Rating

The ratings are based on information obtained from the patient during the routine interview/assessment. In addition, information forom other sources can be used to complete the ratings, e.g. from case notes, from other informants.

Time period to include in Rating

When rating each of the 12 items, the rater is usually asked to consider the two-week period immediately before the date of the rating. The rater then records under each heading a rating of the worst symptom/problem that has occurred at any time during that two-week period. The rater does not attempt to record an estimate of the patient's average or overall functioning.

Please note: This 'two-week rule' does not apply if the two ratings take place less than two weeks apart. In such cases, the rating is made on the basis of the worst symptom/problem since the previous rating.


Edited by Gavin Andrews MD, UNSW, Jan 03
© 2003 CRUfAD