O-Log Frequently Asked Questions

1. When can the O-Log be performed?
2. Can the O-Log be administered to people who are unable to vocalize?
3. Could the O-Log be used over the phone?
4. Could the O-Log be used by family members?
5. Should I use the O-Log or the GOAT?

1. When can the O-Log be performed?
At UAB, the O-Log is typically administered during morning rounds, but it can be done at any time. In fairness to patients, it is likely best to administer the O-Log at the same time during the day when repeated administrations take place. The O-Log can be used daily or at intervals of several days.

2. Can the O-Log be administered to people who are unable to vocalize?
The O-Log is not dependent on vocal responses. The examiner can rely on written responses or mouthing of responses using the established 3 point scoring protocol. Fortunately, all responses to the O-Log are brief. If the person can provide a yes/no response the recognition format can be used.

3. Could the O-Log be used over the phone?
This has not been done at UAB, but there is no reason that the O-Log could not be administered over the phone, provided the patient can respond vocally. There are no non-vocal motor abilities required by the O-Log and it is a brief scale.

4. Could the O-Log be used by family members?
A few family members at UAB have requested training in administering the O-Log so that progress could be documented following discharge from acute rehabilitation. This has not proven to be a problem.

5. Should I use the O-Log or the GOAT?
If you are working with a patient who has not experienced a TBI, the O-Log is more appropriate. For those with TBI it is a matter of personal choice. Both scales are effective in measuring orientation. The O-Log has the benefit of brevity, objectivity, and clarity in scoring. The GOAT has the benefit of a long history of research and clinical application. For the severely injured, the O-Log should be considered strongly because of the emphasis on essential information. For the mildly injured, the GOAT may be more appropriate given its track record and the questions asked.