ABSTRACT
The neurologic examination is an essential tool for clinicians who participate in the care of patients with an injury or disorder involving the nervous system. Serial neurologic examinations are an important part of the clinical armamentarium that enables clinicians to follow the progress of a patient. The initial patient encounter represents an opportunity in some cases to gather information from family or friends as to any existing deficits or conditions. The exact frequency of the examinations will largely be determined based on the severity of the injury and the potential for deterioration. Changes in a neurologic exam can be subtle or in some cases obvious. The examiner should complete the same evaluation as was performed for the baseline examination in each subsequent evaluation. Serial neurologic examinations play a critical role in the care of patients with neurologic conditions. Utilizing a thorough baseline neurologic examination and subsequent serial examinations to identify important clinical changes improves neurologic outcomes and saves lives.
