Physical Assessment: Focused Neurological

Question 1

Neurological assessment

Answer 1

AVPU
Is the patient alert?
Do they respond to verbal command?
Do they respond to painful stimulus?
Are they Unconscions

Question 2

Neurological assessmen

Answer 2

Pupils

Are they pupils pinpoint? less than 2mm
Are they pupils normal? 2-6mm
Are the pupils dilated? greater than 6mm

Shine a bright light into pupil cover the other one does it constrict quickly?
Repeat on other side
Do they respond the same way

Unusual movement
Deviate from midline, dialated, non reactive on one side, indicates possible increased intercranial pressure, nerve compression or traumatic mydriasis.

Question 3

Neurological assessment

Answer 3

Motor function

Muscle coordination, strength and tone, any obvious facial weakness

Abnormal movements - seizures, tremors decorticate or decerebrate posturing.

Question 4

Neurological assessment

Answer 4

Sensory function

Hearing and ability to understand verbal information
Superficial sensation (light touch or pain)

Question 5

Neurological assesssment

Answer 5

Vital signs

Assess respiration rate, rhythm and effort.

BP and pulse to ensure adequate perfusion status.

Widening pulse pressure and slowing pulse rate may indicate increased intercranial pressure

Body temperature maintain normothermia

Question 6

Neurological Overview

Answer 6

1. Level of consciousness AVPU
2. Pupils
3. Motor function
4. Sensory function
5. Vital signs