HA Neuro

Neurologic Assessment

A comprehensive evaluation of the nervous system that includes mental status, cranial nerves, motor system, sensory system, and reflexes.

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

A scale used to assess level of consciousness, with scores ranging from 3 to 15 based on eye opening, motor response, and verbal response.

Mental Status

Refers to the level of consciousness, orientation, and cognitive functioning of an individual.

Cranial Nerves

Twelve pairs of nerves that originate in the brain and control various sensory and motor functions.

Motor System Assessment

Evaluation of muscle size, strength, tone, and involuntary movements during a neurologic examination.

Sensory System Assessment

Identifying various sensory stimuli to evaluate the function of peripheral nerves and central pathways.

Reflexes (DTR)

Deep tendon reflexes are a measurement of the stretch reflexes used to assess the integrity of the reflex arc.

Cranial Nerve II: Optic Nerve

Responsible for vision; tested by visual acuity and visual fields.

Cranial Nerve V: Trigeminal Nerve

Controls muscles of mastication and provides sensory input from the face; assessed through light touch and strength.

Cranial Nerve VII: Facial Nerve

Controls facial expression and provides taste sensation; evaluated through symmetry and movement.

Cranial Nerve VIII: Acoustic Nerve

Responsible for hearing; assessed through the ability to hear conversational speech and whispered voice.

Cerebellar Function

Assesses balance and coordination; includes gait tests and rapid alternating movements.

Deep Tendon Reflex Grading Scale

A scale ranging from 0 (no response) to 4+ (brisk, hyperactive) to evaluate reflexes.

Jendrassik’s Maneuver

A reinforcement technique used to enhance reflex response during examination.

Posterior Column Tract

Pathway involved in the sensory perception of vibration and proprioception.

Spinothalamic Tract

Pathway responsible for pain and temperature sensation.

Neurologic Disorders

Diseases affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and multiple sclerosis.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the nervous system to change and adapt in response to experience, learning, or injury.

Myelin Sheath

A protective covering that surrounds nerve fibers and helps speed up the transmission of electrical signals.

Neurons

The basic building blocks of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting information throughout the body.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another; examples include dopamine and serotonin.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord, including sensory and motor nerves.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord; it processes information and coordinates responses throughout the body.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

A test that measures electrical activity in the brain, used to diagnose conditions such as epilepsy and sleep disorders.

Autonomic Nervous System

A division of the PNS that controls involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate and digestion.