CNS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CNS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. A patient in the neurological ICU develops a new unilateral dilated, non-reactive pupil after worsening headache. The MOST urgent concern is: → Uncal herniation compressing CN III
2. Edaravone and riluzole are disease-modifying treatments approved for: → Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
3. Which of the following is a common cause of peripheral neuropathy? → Diabetes and other causes of nerve damage
4. Which bedside measurement best signals the need for intubation in a patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome? → Forced vital capacity below 20 mL/kg
5. What is the main safety risk when giving IV phenytoin too fast? → Hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias
6. How should a practitioner handle an unexpected finding during pharmacology basics procedures? → Document it and follow established protocols for further evaluation
7. How should a practitioner handle an unexpected finding during documentation standards procedures? → Document it and follow established protocols for further evaluation
8. First-line treatment for Guillain-Barré syndrome in a patient who cannot walk on their own is: → IVIG 2 g/kg over 5 days or plasma exchange
9. What is the first line of treatment for most neurological disorders? → Medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes
10. Which action best prevents falls in a hospitalized patient with Parkinson's disease? → Give dopaminergic medications on time and help with mobility
11. Which intervention has the strongest evidence for reducing the risk of post-stroke depression in the rehabilitation setting? → Structured psychosocial support combined with aerobic exercise
12. What role does documentation play in treatment planning? → It is a critical legal and clinical requirement
13. What should healthcare professionals prioritize when communicating with patients who have neurological disorders? → Clear and compassionate communication
14. A patient with Broca's aphasia is having trouble giving consent. What is the most appropriate approach? → Use yes/no questions, pictures, and written cues to support communication
15. A surrogate decides for an incapacitated patient based on what the patient would have wanted. What is this standard called? → Substituted judgment
16. Which brainstem structure contains the nuclei of cranial nerves IX, X, XI, and XII? → Medulla oblongata
17. Why is confidentiality important in the care of patients with neurological disorders? → To protect the patient's privacy and maintain trust
18. What is the primary characteristic of a neurological disorder? → Abnormalities in the brain and nervous system
19. A patient with a subarachnoid hemorrhage is on nimodipine. Which safety check comes before each dose? → Blood pressure
20. What is the standard of care requirement for patient communication in clinical practice? → The level of care a reasonably competent practitioner would provide
21. Which evidence-based approach is most important when applying treatment planning principles? → Integrating current research with clinical expertise and patient values
22. What is the first priority when caring for a patient with a neurological disorder? → Ensuring patient safety and preventing further complications
23. How does informed consent apply in the treatment of neurological disorders? → It ensures patients are informed about their treatment and risks
24. In the context of Certified Neuro Specialist, what is the primary goal of documentation standards? → Optimal patient outcomes and safety
25. What is the standard IV alteplase dose for acute ischemic stroke? → 0.9 mg/kg, max 90 mg, with 10% as a bolus
26. Triptans are contraindicated in a migraine patient with: → Known coronary artery disease
27. Which diagnostic test is commonly used to detect multiple sclerosis (MS)? → Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
28. A patient with Parkinson's disease is admitted NPO for surgery. What is the main medication safety risk? → Abrupt levodopa withdrawal causing rigidity or parkinsonism-hyperpyrexia syndrome
29. After IV alteplase for stroke, which blood pressure limit must be kept for the first 24 hours? → Below 180/105 mmHg
30. A patient with myasthenia gravis is prescribed a fluoroquinolone. What is the safety concern? → It can cause a myasthenic exacerbation