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attention
Ability to sustain focused thought on a particular stimulus or activity
- neural pathways from the reticular-activating system in the brainstem to the intralaminar nuclei of the thalamus to the cerebral cortex constitute the attentional matrix. [2]
- these pathways play a role in alertness, response to stimuli & directed attention
- the prefrontal, posterior parietal & medial temporal cortex (bilaterally) are most involved in general attention
- the right parietal cortex is dominant for spatially-directed attention
- acetylcholine, dopamine & serotonin are the most important neurotransmitters involved in attentional pathways
- brainstem neural pathways regulating sleep & arousal overlap with those for attention
- norepinephrine associated with projections of the locus ceruleus plays a role in vigilance or arousal
Clinical significance:
- attention allows clinicians to be receptive to new information & open to the needs of others [3]
- attention helps clinicians provide safe, high-quality care [3]
- vigilance for deterioration of high-risk patients
- interacting with technology that informs care decisions through clinical decision support [3]
- effective communication patterns & workflow can diminish cognitive load & facilitate attention
Complications:
- human capacity for attention is limited, mental resources can be overwhelmed
- cognitive load theory provides a framework for understanding human capacity for attention
- lack of sleep, exercise, burnout, or unnecessary distractions can deplete cognitive resources for attention
- interruptions, task switching, & multitasking can increase cognitive load & diminish attention
Related
attention assessment
attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
inattention (poor concentration, attention disorder)
General
cognition (intelligence)
References
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th ed.,
Text Revision, DSM-IV, American Psychiatric Association,
Washington DC, 1994
- Mahler ME, In: Intensive Course in Geriatric Medicine &
Board Review, Marina Del Ray, CA, Sept 29-Oct 2, 2004
- Kissler MJ, Porter S, Knees M et al
Attention Among Health Care Professionals: A Scoping Review,
Ann Intern Med 2024 June 18
PMID: 38885508 Review.
https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M23-3229