NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) Exam 2025: Test Group D
(Patients 1-6) Actual Test Questions and correct Answers
Patient 1:
Question 1:
Level of Consciousness:
The patient is alert, aware of the surroundings, and responds appropriately to
questions. What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the "Level of Consciousness"
category?
• Answer:
Score: 0
Explanation: A score of 0 is given for alertness and responsiveness to
questions. If the patient is drowsy or confused, a score would be higher.
Patient 2:
Question 2:
Best Gaze:
The patient is able to follow commands and maintain gaze at a target without
deviation, without difficulty. What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the "Best
Gaze" category?
• Answer:
Score: 0
Explanation: A score of 0 is assigned when the patient can maintain gaze
without abnormal deviation. A higher score would be assigned if gaze
deviation occurs or if the patient cannot follow a target.
Patient 3:
, Question 3:
Visual Field Test:
The patient demonstrates a loss of vision in the right half of the visual field (right
homonymous hemianopia). What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the "Visual
Field" category?
• Answer:
Score: 3
Explanation: A score of 3 is assigned for a complete loss of vision in one
field, such as hemianopia. A lower score is given for partial vision loss.
Patient 4:
Question 4:
Facial Droop:
The patient demonstrates noticeable facial asymmetry, with the left side of the
face drooping when asked to smile. What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the
"Facial Palsy" category?
• Answer:
Score: 2
Explanation: A score of 2 is assigned when there is moderate facial
weakness (e.g., drooping or asymmetry). A score of 3 would be given for
severe facial droop or inability to move the face.
Patient 5:
Question 5:
Motor Arm Function:
The patient is able to lift both arms against gravity but demonstrates mild
weakness on the left side. What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the "Motor
Arm" category?
• Answer:
Score: 1 (left side)
Explanation: A score of 1 is given for mild weakness or drift. A score of 0 is
(Patients 1-6) Actual Test Questions and correct Answers
Patient 1:
Question 1:
Level of Consciousness:
The patient is alert, aware of the surroundings, and responds appropriately to
questions. What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the "Level of Consciousness"
category?
• Answer:
Score: 0
Explanation: A score of 0 is given for alertness and responsiveness to
questions. If the patient is drowsy or confused, a score would be higher.
Patient 2:
Question 2:
Best Gaze:
The patient is able to follow commands and maintain gaze at a target without
deviation, without difficulty. What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the "Best
Gaze" category?
• Answer:
Score: 0
Explanation: A score of 0 is assigned when the patient can maintain gaze
without abnormal deviation. A higher score would be assigned if gaze
deviation occurs or if the patient cannot follow a target.
Patient 3:
, Question 3:
Visual Field Test:
The patient demonstrates a loss of vision in the right half of the visual field (right
homonymous hemianopia). What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the "Visual
Field" category?
• Answer:
Score: 3
Explanation: A score of 3 is assigned for a complete loss of vision in one
field, such as hemianopia. A lower score is given for partial vision loss.
Patient 4:
Question 4:
Facial Droop:
The patient demonstrates noticeable facial asymmetry, with the left side of the
face drooping when asked to smile. What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the
"Facial Palsy" category?
• Answer:
Score: 2
Explanation: A score of 2 is assigned when there is moderate facial
weakness (e.g., drooping or asymmetry). A score of 3 would be given for
severe facial droop or inability to move the face.
Patient 5:
Question 5:
Motor Arm Function:
The patient is able to lift both arms against gravity but demonstrates mild
weakness on the left side. What is the NIHSS score for this patient in the "Motor
Arm" category?
• Answer:
Score: 1 (left side)
Explanation: A score of 1 is given for mild weakness or drift. A score of 0 is
