Comprehensive Guide to Scoring the NIH Stroke Scale Group C for Motor Function

Learn about the NIH Stroke Scale group C for assessing motor function. This article explains scoring, examination, and significance of evaluating arm/leg strength and coordination to quantify stroke severity.

What is the NIH Stroke Scale?

The NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is a systematic assessment tool that provides a quantitative measure of stroke-related neurologic deficit. It was introduced in 1989 and modified several times through 1994. The NIHSS is used by healthcare providers to objectively quantify the impairment caused by a stroke. The scale consists of 11 items, each of which scores a specific ability between 0 and 2, 0 and 3, or 0 and 4. A higher score indicates more severe impairment.

NIH Stroke Scale Examination

Administration of the NIHSS requires training and certification. It is usually administered by a neurologist, nurse, or therapist. The 11 item scale assesses language, speech, consciousness, eye movements, visual fields, motor strength, sensation, coordination, and neglect. Each item is scored individually and tabulated at the end to give a total NIHSS score.

NIH Stroke Scale Group C - Motor Function

Group C of the NIHSS evaluates motor function in both arms and legs. This includes three items:

- C5 evaluates motor function in the left arm. The patient is asked to hold their arm at a 90 degree angle for 10 seconds without drifting down. This is scored 0-4.

- C6 evaluates motor function in the right arm, using the same testing process. It is also scored 0-4.

- C7 evaluates limb ataxia. The patient touches their nose from an extended arm position with eyes open. Incoordination is scored 1-2.

Scoring NIH Stroke Scale Group C

Scoring for the motor function items in group C is as follows:

- C5 and C6: 0 = No drift, holds arm up for 10 seconds. 1 = Drifts down but does not hit bed. 2 = Some effort against gravity. 3 = No effort against gravity. 4 = No movement.

- C7: 0 = No ataxia. 1 = Ataxia in 1 limb. 2 = Ataxia in 2 limbs.

A higher score indicates greater impairment of motor function on that side of the body.

Significance of NIH Stroke Scale Group C

The motor function items in group C provide important information about the severity of a stroke. Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body is a classic sign of stroke. Scoring arm and leg strength allows quantitative measurement of this weakness.

Changes in group C scores over time can indicate if a patient is recovering and responding to treatment. The NIHSS overall gives healthcare providers a standardized way to evaluate neurological changes during the acute and rehabilitation phases of stroke.

Several facts about nih stroke scale answers group c v5

nihss scoring

The NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is a standardized stroke severity rating scale used by healthcare providers. Scoring for each item ranges from 0-2, 0-3, or 0-4, with higher scores indicating more severe neurological deficits. Total NIHSS scores quantify overall stroke severity.

nihss certification

The NIH Stroke Scale exam should only be administered by healthcare providers who are certified in its use. Certification ensures providers are trained on proper administration, scoring, and interpretation of the scale. Certification workshops teach providers how to reliably conduct stroke assessments.

nihss arm drift

Arm drift refers to one of the motor function items in group C of the NIHSS. The patient holds their arms up for 10 seconds. Inability to hold the arm up without downward drift indicates hemiparesis due to stroke. The degree of drift and effort against gravity determine the score.

nihss normal score

A normal score on the NIH Stroke Scale is 0, indicating no measurable neurological deficit. Most patients will score above 0 during an active stroke, reflecting impairment. Score of 1-4 indicate minor stroke, 5-15 moderate stroke, 16-20 moderate to severe, and 21-42 severe stroke.

nihss leg motor

The NIHSS includes assessment of leg motor function and coordination. Item C7 tests limb ataxia by having the patient touch their nose from an extended arm position. One point is given for ataxia in one limb, two points for ataxia in both limbs.

nihss comprehension

The NIHSS tests comprehension ability through simple commands. The patient is asked to perform two consecutive tasks, like "close your eyes" and "make a fist." Failure to perform both tasks correctly indicates impaired comprehension, scoring 1 or 2 points depending on severity.

nihss neglect

Unilateral spatial neglect often occurs after stroke. Item C11 of the NIHSS tests for neglect by having the patient respond to visual, sensory, and auditory stimuli from both sides. Abnormal responses indicate hemispatial neglect, scoring 1-2 depending on severity.

nihss training

Proper training is required prior to administering the NIHSS in clinical practice. Training workshops review scale items, demonstration videos, scoring, interpretation, and certification testing. Training ensures accurate and reliable use of the scale across healthcare settings.

nihss form

The NIH Stroke Scale form provides a structured and standardized way to document neurological exam findings. The 11-item form includes each test, response options, and score. Total score is summed at the bottom. The form facilitates consistent scoring and informs treatment decisions.

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