Wendy is a neuropsychologist at Sazyes, and in that role she conducts neuropsychological research. From her background in clinical neuropsychology, supplemented by experience in occupational and organizational psychology, Wendy specializes in examining the influence of cognitive functions on job performance. "My job is to investigate how cognitive symptoms affect a person's functioning in the workplace," she says.
As a neuropsychologist, Wendy does not work in a hospital setting, but rather within an organizational context. Her services are requested by occupational physicians, insurance doctors and the UWV to investigate the impact of cognitive problems at work. The goal is to understand how cognitive functions such as memory, concentration and speed of information processing affect work performance, especially in people trying to re-engage in their work after a medical condition or trauma.
What is a neuropsychological examination (NPO)?
A neuropsychological examination (NPO) focuses on various cognitive function domains, such as memory, attention, executive functions and information processing. "With a neuropsychological examination, you gain insight into how well someone can perform certain tasks, such as planning, problem solving and impulse regulation," Wendy explains. The examination can provide valuable information about a client's limitations, such as if someone has difficulty concentrating or becomes easily overstimulated in a busy work environment.
Various tests are administered during the examination, which include different types of memory tests, attention and concentration tests and measurements of information processing speed. "The tests are very practical in nature. We take the time to properly guide the client through the process," Wendy says. Upon completion, the test results are compared to a norm group to see if there are significant deviations. This helps determine the impact on daily functioning and job performance.
The application of NPO in practice
Wendy sees people with a variety of complaints in her work. They may be people recovering from a brain infarction or other serious conditions, as well as those suffering from long-term overuse or post-COVID symptoms. "You prepare yourself based on the medical information obtained in advance, but other than that, you don't know exactly who you're getting in front of. That's what makes the work so interesting, every situation is unique," Wendy says. This includes not only the impact on work, but everyday life outside of work also plays a role.
In some cases, the results of a neuropsychological examination may lead to a reassessment of a person's work capacity. "If the examination shows that someone is performing abnormally, certain work activities may need to be modified, or someone may be temporarily or permanently unable to perform certain tasks," explains Wendy. To determine the exact workload capacity, neuropsychological is often used in conjunction with a Psychiatric examination, neurological assessment or an insurance medical workload assessment.
The impact of brain damage on job performance
When someone is dealing with a brain disorder or brain damage, such as after a brain infarct, it can have a major impact on work performance. Irritability, difficulty concentrating or memory problems are common complaints. "People sometimes don't notice until later that work doesn't go the way it once did. They find out that they have trouble conferring in (large) groups or that they can no longer plan well."
An important aspect of Wendy's work is providing clarity. "Often people like knowing they are not 'crazy.' If they understand what is going on, they can learn to cope better with their symptoms," Wendy explains. Even with clients without a clear medical cause, for example with suspected post-COVID symptoms, the examination can offer valuable insights and provide recognition of symptoms.
Personal involvement and variety
What Wendy likes most about her job is the variety. "You never know who you're going to meet. Every investigation brings new challenges and every person you get in front of you is different. It makes the work fascinating and sometimes intense," she says. The personal aspect is essential to Wendy. "I really try to help by listening carefully to someone. Especially if someone has to adjust his or her life because of a major event. It's important that someone feels heard."
Want to know more?
A neuropsychological examination is the gold standard in objectifying cognitive complaints, such as concentration problems and memory complaints. Want to learn more about neuropsychological testing at Sazyes? Or curious about what it's like to work for Sazyes? We would love to get in touch with you.
