How to Calculate N I H Stroke Scale
What is N I H Stroke Scale?
NIH Stroke Scale quantifies stroke severity by assessing 11 neurologic domains. Scores guide thrombolytic and thrombectomy decisions.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Evaluate: consciousness, eye gaze, visual, facial symmetry, motor (arms and legs), sensation, language, dysarthria, neglect
- 2Each item scored 0-4 (or 0-3/0-2)
- 3Total 0-42; higher indicates more severe stroke
Worked Examples
Input
Alert, gaze normal, visual loss left, facial droop, weak arm/leg
Result
NIHSS ≈ 10 (moderate)
Candidate for thrombolysis
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕Administering too slowly, delaying thrombolysis window
- ✕Over-interpreting small NIHSS differences
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly should NIHSS be done?
Within 10-15 minutes of presentation; guides emergency thrombolysis decision.
Can NIHSS predict outcome?
Broadly yes: NIHSS 0-5 usually good outcomes, >20 often poor outcomes, but individual variation is large.
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