NPI
Pronunciation: en-pee-eye
Also written as: NPI — Neuropsychiatric Inventory
Neuropsychiatric Inventory, a standardized assessment tool for measuring behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia patients.
Full Definition
The Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) is a widely used clinical instrument designed to assess behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) through structured interviews with knowledgeable informants. Developed by Jeffrey Cummings, the NPI evaluates twelve neuropsychiatric domains including delusions, hallucinations, agitation, depression, anxiety, apathy, irritability, euphoria, disinhibition, aberrant motor behavior, nighttime behaviors, and appetite changes. Each domain is scored for both frequency and severity, with an optional caregiver distress rating. The NPI provides quantitative measurement of symptom burden and treatment response, making it valuable for both clinical practice and research. Various versions exist, including the NPI-Q (brief questionnaire) and nursing home version (NPI-NH), adapted for different care settings and time constraints.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize; specify version when applicable (NPI-Q, NPI-NH).
In Context
- "The NPI revealed significant agitation and sleep disturbances with high caregiver distress scores." — psychiatric evaluation report
- "We will administer the NPI quarterly to monitor treatment response and symptom progression." — care plan documentation