AANN Webinar: Zooming in to Demystify the Adult Neurological Assessment-Neuroassessment Webinar-Edit

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The AANN webinar introduced a white paper intended to standardize neurological assessments for hospitalized adults across nursing specialties. Because the literature did not provide enough evidence for a clinical practice guideline, the paper draws on neuroscience nursing expertise and aims to help nurses identify changes early, intervene promptly, and document findings consistently.<br /><br />Presenters emphasized that neurological assessment is an ongoing process, not just a scheduled check. Patient history, medications, baseline function, symptoms, and vital signs all inform the assessment. For awake, alert patients, recommended components include level of consciousness, speech and language, selected cranial nerve checks, extremity movement and sensation, and vital signs. For patients with altered consciousness, observation and appropriate stimuli help assess responsiveness, movement, and posturing; key cranial nerve checks include eye movements, pupils, corneal reflexes, and cough or gag reflexes. Changes—especially reduced consciousness, asymmetry, abnormal vital signs, or new reflex findings—may require prompt reassessment and escalation.<br /><br />The task force reviewed comments from nursing organizations and other experts, refining the paper while keeping its recommendations practical for general nursing practice. The presenters discussed challenges such as assessment frequency, electronic documentation, and tailoring examinations for stroke, psychiatric, sedated, or rehabilitation patients. They encouraged nurses to establish baselines, communicate changes clearly, and consult providers when needed. The white paper is intended to be revisited and updated as evidence and practice evolve.

Keywords

neurological assessment

hospitalized adults

nursing specialties

white paper

baseline function

level of consciousness

cranial nerve checks

patient history

neurological changes

electronic documentation