ADHD/QB Testing
What is QbTest?
QbTest is an FDA-cleared test measuring all 3 core symptom domains; hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. QbTest is used when evaluating ADHD symptoms and measuring response to ADHD treatment. QbTest involves a 15 or 20-minute computer-based task that measures your (or your child’s) ability to maintain attention and impulse control. Meanwhile, an infrared camera tracks movements, and therefore activity, during the test. The results are based on a comparison of your (or your child’s) performance with data from other people of the same sex and age who do not have ADHD.
Why is the QbTest important?
A diagnostic assessment for ADHD involves three main parts: gathering a clinical history through an interview with your provider, an objective measurement of symptoms using QbTest, and the completion of one or more rating scales. QbTest is not meant to be a stand-alone tool for diagnosing ADHD. Instead, QbTest is designed to be added to the assessment process along with the clinical interview and rating scales. Objective data from the QbTest is an important corner of the diagnostic triangle, by adding QbTest to the assessment and monitoring process, you can get a better view of ADHD.
What does the test set-up look like?
The test equipment consists of an infrared camera, a headband with an infrared marker attached to it, a laptop, and a responder button, like so:
What do QbTest results look like?
Sample QbTest reports are shown below:
How often will I take a QbTest?
Testing is typically completed initially to aid in diagnosis and quantify the severity of symptoms, during medication initiation and dosing changes to ensure efficacy, and periodically to determine the need for continued treatment.
When will my clinician QbTest?
ADHD Evaluation
QbTest is used together with other clinical measures to help your clinician make more informed decisions about ruling out ADHD.
Starting Treatment
If you receive a diagnosis and you are prescribed ADHD medication, your clinician can use QbTest for treatment monitoring purposes.
Your clinician may ask you to perform another QbTest when you start your prescribed ADHD treatment to see what impact it has on your inattention hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Follow-up Assessment
Your clinician may use QbTest at regular intervals to understand how your core ADHD symptoms may change over time.
Your clinician can compare your latest QbTest report against reports obtained at any other point in time, for example to measure the efficacy of treatment over longer periods of time.
How should i prepare for a qbTest?
- Try to ensure adequate sleep the night before the test.
- Avoid consuming excessive amounts of caffeine the day of the test.
- If you are to be tested while on ADHD medication, please ensure that you take the medication as directed. Our office will schedule the test a specific number of hours after the medication is taken, depending on the type of medication.
- For a child, explain that they will be taking a test on a computer which is designed to be boring. Inform the child that they will wear a headband during the test, but that it does not hurt. They will be seated in a room by themselves, but a family member can stand outside if helpful.