Neuro Exam Checklist

What is a neurological examination?

A neurological examination is a structured series of tests and observations that healthcare providers use to assess the function of the nervous system. These exams are intended to detect problems within a patient's neurological system. Considering the nervous system's influence on our bodily functions and physical sensations, the insights drawn from a neurological exam also help provide a look into the overall status of a patient's health.

Conducting a neurological exam involves different sections that work to provide information that paints a more general picture of functioning. It begins with a mental status examination. Then, a detailed examination of the cranial nerves, motor function, sensory function, coordination, reflexes, and gait follows.

What is in our Neuro Exam Checklist Template?

A well-structured neurological exam checklist is a valuable tool for healthcare practitioners, ensuring a thorough and systematic evaluation of a patient's neurological function. Our template includes several key sections that cover various aspects of the nervous system:

Mental status examination

A critical component of the neurological exam, the mental status section typically includes assessments of:

• Alertness
• Orientation
• Attention
• Memory
• Language skills

Cranial nerve assessment

This checklist should also include a comprehensive section for evaluating all twelve cranial nerves:

• Cranial nerve I (olfactory nerve): Results of smell testing
• Cranial nerve II (optic nerve): Visual acuity, visual fields, and fundoscopic exam findings
• Cranial nerve III, IV, VI (oculomotor, trochlear, abducens): Pupillary responses, eye movements, presence of ptosis
• Cranial nerve V (trigeminal nerve): Facial sensation, corneal reflex, jaw strength
• Cranial nerve VII (facial nerve): Facial symmetry, muscle strength, taste function
• Cranial nerve VIII (vestibulocochlear): Hearing acuity, balance testing
• Cranial nerve IX and X (glossopharyngeal, vagus nerve): Gag reflex, palatal movement, voice quality
• Cranial nerve XI (accessory): Shoulder shrug and neck rotation strength
• Cranial nerve XII (hypoglossal nerve): Tongue movement and strength

Motor function

This section allows for documentation of the following:

• Upper extremity strength
• Lower extremity strength
• Coordination

Sensory function

The template provides space to record findings during the sensory exam:

• Light touch
• Pain
• Temperature
• Vibration
• Proprioception

Reflexes

The reflex section of the neuro exam template typically includes the following:

• Deep tendon reflexes
• Plantar reflex

Gait and station

The final section of the template often includes space to document:

• Gait
• Balance

How to use this Neuro Exam Checklist Template

Our neurologic exam checklist is a valuable resource for healthcare practitioners to ensure a comprehensive neurological assessment. Here's a concise guide on how to effectively use this template in clinical practice:

Step 1: Patient information and mental status assessment

Ask the patient for their basic information, including name, age, date of birth, gender, and contact details. Next, proceed to the mental status section, evaluating and documenting the patient's alertness, orientation, attention, memory, and language skills. This initial assessment provides crucial insights into the patient's cognitive function and level of consciousness.

Step 2: Cranial nerve examination

Systematically work through the cranial nerve assessment, checking each cranial nerve in order. For each nerve, perform the appropriate tests and mark whether the function is intact or if there are any abnormalities. This comprehensive evaluation helps identify potential neurological deficits related to specific cranial nerves.

Step 3: Motor and sensory function evaluation

Move on to assess motor function, including upper and lower extremity strength and coordination. Document your findings in the designated spaces. Then, conduct the sensory examination, testing and recording responses to light touch, pain, temperature, vibration, and proprioception. This step is crucial for identifying any motor weaknesses or sensory deficits.

Step 4: Reflex testing and gait assessment

Complete the reflexes section by testing and documenting responses for deep tendon reflexes (biceps, triceps, patellar, and Achilles) and the plantar reflex. Finally, assess the patient's gait and balance. Note any abnormalities or concerns in the gait and station section.

Neuro Exam Checklist Template example (sample)

Healthcare practitioners can download our neuro exam sample PDF to guide them in using this template in their practice. This filled-out version streamlines the process of assessing a patient's neurologic function and neurological symptoms. If you find this helpful, feel free to check out an online preview or download a copy by clicking on the link below.

Download this Neuro Exam Checklist Template example: 

‍

Why use Carepatron as your neuro exam checklist app?

Using Carepatron as your practice management software can significantly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of neurological examinations. We provide an organized and structured platform that helps streamline the assessment workflow.

Our clinical documentation software also offers the flexibility to customize checklists according to specific requirements or protocols, which is a key feature of Carepatron. You can adapt the neuro exam checklists to align with various neurological conditions and patient needs, ensuring that the assessments are comprehensive and relevant.

Most importantly, Carepatron adheres to stringent security protocols and complies with regulations like HIPAA, ensuring that patient data is handled with the highest standards of security and confidentiality. Experience all these features and more when you join thousands of healthcare practitioners already relying on Carepatron.

Sign up to get started!