(NIHSS)-8 & MRS Flashcards
What is the NIHSS-8 and how is it determined?
A stroke assessment tool used to objectively quantify the impairment caused by stroke.
• composed of 8 items
• score of 0-24
• score correlates with a description of the impairment
• 82% accuracy for large vessel occlusion (LVO)
What are the 8 items assessed?
1) Level of consciousness
2) Level of consciousness questions
• Age & current month
3) Commands
• open/close eyes
• grip & release, non paretic hand & then other
4) Best Gaze
• horizontal eye moment tracking
5) Facial Palsy
• show teeth, close eyes tight, raise eyebrows
• if stuporous check symmetry of grimace to
pain
6) Motor Arm
• arm 90° sitting or 45° supine for 10sec
- score L), then R)
7) Dysarthria
• slowly count to 5
8) Extinction/Neglect
• simultaneously touch pt on both hands/legs
with eyes closed & then show fingers in both
visual fields
What is the MRS?
The Modified Rankin Scale is a test of premorbid function to assess pt suitability for hyper acute stroke treatment
What is the score range & relevant description of the MRS?
0 - No symptoms
1 - No significant disability despite symptoms
2 - Slight disability - unable to carry out all
previous activities, can walk without
assistance
3 - Moderate disability - requires help but can
walk
4 - Moderate severe disability - unable to walk
without assistance & unable to attend to own
bodily needs without help
5 - Severe disability - bedridden, incontinent &
requires constant nursing
