NIHSS Score Administration and Interpretation

Question 1

What is the maximum possible total score on the NIHSS?

Accepted Answer

42

Answer

The NIHSS has a maximum total score of 42, achieved when all 15 items receive the highest possible scores.

Question 2

An NIHSS score of 0 indicates which of the following?

Accepted Answer

No stroke symptoms

Answer

A score of 0 on the NIHSS indicates no detectable stroke symptoms or neurological deficits.

Question 3

How many total items does the complete NIHSS assessment include?

Accepted Answer

15

Answer

The NIHSS comprises 15 items, including separate bilateral assessments for motor arm (5a/5b) and motor leg (6a/6b).

Question 4

An NIHSS score of 1-4 classifies a stroke as which severity level?

Accepted Answer

Minor

Answer

NIHSS scores of 1-4 indicate a minor stroke with limited neurological deficits.

Question 5

Which NIHSS score range indicates a moderate stroke?

Accepted Answer

5-15

Answer

NIHSS scores of 5-15 classify a stroke as moderate, indicating significant but not catastrophic neurological impairment.

NIHSS - National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale Practice Test