The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is a 15-item assessment that quantifies stroke severity. Scores range from 0 (no deficit) to 42 (maximum deficit). It evaluates consciousness, gaze, visual fields, facial palsy, motor function, ataxia, sensation, language, dysarthria, and neglect.

When should I use the ABCD2 Score?

The ABCD2 Score estimates the short-term risk of stroke following a transient ischemic attack (TIA). It uses age, blood pressure, clinical features, duration, and diabetes status. A score ≥4 indicates moderate-to-high risk requiring urgent evaluation and likely hospitalization.

What is the difference between MMSE and MoCA?

Both screen for cognitive impairment, but MoCA is more sensitive for detecting mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MMSE has a ceiling effect in highly educated patients. MoCA includes executive function tasks that MMSE lacks. MoCA is generally preferred as a first-line screening tool.

Neurology Scoring Tools & Calculators

Neurological assessment tools including NIHSS for stroke severity, ABCD2 Score for TIA risk stratification, Hunt-Hess and Fisher Grade for subarachnoid hemorrhage, and cognitive screening tools like MMSE and MoCA.

This category currently includes 4 tools, including NIH Stroke Scale, ABCD² Score, and Hunt & Hess.

These resources are built for clinicians, trainees, and medically informed patients who need fast bedside calculations. Use the results as decision support and pair them with full clinical context and local guidelines.

All Neurology Tools (4)

NIH Stroke Scale

Calculate the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) to quantify stroke severity. Mild ≤4, Moderate 5–15, Severe 16–20, Very Severe >20. Guides IV tPA eligibility and acute stroke unit treatment decisions.

ABCD² Score

Calculate the ABCD² score to estimate stroke risk after TIA. Score 6–7: 8.1% two-day risk. Score 4–5: 4.1%. Score 0–3: 1.0%. Guides inpatient admission vs expedited outpatient workup.

Hunt & Hess

Classify subarachnoid hemorrhage severity using the Hunt & Hess scale to predict surgical outcomes.

Fisher Grade

Classify subarachnoid hemorrhage on CT using the Fisher grading scale to predict vasospasm risk.

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