TJC2026B Note for "National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS Score Performed for Ischemic Stroke Patients)"

• Topic Version for Release TJC2026B: 57
• Topic has changed since last release: Compare versions

Rationale

The rationale for the measure was updated to harmonize with recommendations from the American Heart Association and Get With The Guidelines.

Description

Rationale
Change from:
A neurological examination of all patients presenting to the hospital emergency department with warning signs and symptoms of stroke should be a top priority and performed in a timely fashion. Use of a standardized stroke scale or scoring tool ensures that the major components of the neurological examination are evaluated. Clinical practice guidelines from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association recommend The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) as the preferred scoring tool for this purpose. Scores obtained aid in the initial diagnosis of the patient, facilitate communication among healthcare professionals, and identify patient eligibility for various interventions and the potential for complications.

To:
A neurological examination of all patients presenting to the hospital emergency department with warning signs and symptoms of stroke should be a top priority and performed in a timely fashion. Use of a standardized stroke scale or scoring tool ensures that the major components of the neurological examination are evaluated. Clinical practice guidelines from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association recommend The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) as the preferred scoring tool for this purpose. In addition, scoring by a certified examiner is highly recommended. Scores obtained aid in the initial diagnosis of the patient, facilitate communication among healthcare professionals, and identify patient eligibility for various interventions and the potential for complications.