Final answer:
The section of the staff assessment for mental status concerned with cerebral functions includes evaluation of orientation and memory, language and speech, sensorium, and judgment and abstract reasoning, which reflect the health of the cerebral cortex.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mental Status Exam: Assessment of Cerebral Functions
The section of the staff assessment for mental status that is of concern typically involves: orientation and memory, language and speech, sensorium, and judgment and abstract reasoning. These are cognitive abilities that are indicative of the cerebrum's function, particularly the cerebral cortex. The mental status exam assesses these abilities through a series of subtests, designed to evaluate behaviors and neurological functions that indicate the health and performance of cortical regions.
The cerebral cortex is organized into various regions, including primary sensory/motor areas, association areas, and multimodal integration areas. These regions are responsible for critical functions like attention, language, sensation, and judgment. The mental status exam is sensitive to identifying potential deficits in these areas, which can suggest the presence of cerebral damage.
In a clinical context, the exam's objective is to understand the relationship between the brain and behavior through the subtests. It accounts not only for central nervous system (CNS) functionality but also its control over the peripheral nervous system (PNS) and musculature. The exam thus provides a diagnostic lead prior to imaging tests and medical interventions, like aspirin therapy, in instances of suspected neurological issues.