UMEM Educational Pearls

Category: Neurology

Title: Conventions for Performing the NIH Stroke Scale

Keywords: nihss, stroke scale (PubMed Search)

Posted: 3/11/2009 by Aisha Liferidge, MD (Updated: 4/26/2024)
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When performing the NIH Stroke Scale, keep the following conventions in mind:


-- Administer scale items in their exact order.
-- Avoid coaching the patient.
-- Accept the patient's first effort.
-- Be consistent.
-- Score only what the patient actually does.
-- Include all deficits in scoring.