Stroke & Cerebrovascular Center
Cincinnati Pre-Hospital Stroke Scale
This scale evaluates for facial palsy, arm weakness, and speech abnormalities. Items are scored as either normal or abnormal.
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Facial Droop |
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The patient shows teeth or smiles.
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| Normal |
Both sides of face move equally |
| Abnormal |
One side of face does not move as well as the other. |
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|
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Arm Drift
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| The patient closes their eyes and extends both arms straight out for 10 seconds. |
| |
| Normal |
Both arms move the same, or both arms do not move at all. |
| Abnormal |
One arm either does not move, or one arm drifts down compared to the other. |
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Speech |
| The patient repeats "You can't teach an old dog new tricks," or some other simple, familiar saying. |
| |
| Normal |
The patient says correct words with no slurring of words. |
| Abnormal |
The patient slurs words, says the wrong words, or is unable to speak. |
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