NIHSS
The NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) is a standard tool nurses and healthcare professionals use to measure how severe a stroke is in patients. Think of it like a report card that helps measure how much a stroke has affected different body functions. Nurses use this scale to quickly check things like how well a patient can speak, move their arms and legs, and understand basic commands. The score helps the healthcare team decide on the best treatment plan and track if the patient is getting better or worse over time. When you see NIHSS mentioned in a resume, it means the nurse has experience with stroke assessment and acute care.
Examples in Resumes
Certified in NIHSS assessment with 98% accuracy rate in stroke unit
Performed over 500 NIHSS evaluations in emergency department setting
Trained new nurses on proper NIHSS scoring and documentation procedures
Typical job title: "Stroke Care Nurses"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Stroke Care Nurses
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement an NIHSS training program for new nurses?
Expected Answer: A senior nurse should discuss creating hands-on training sessions, using practice scenarios, implementing competency checks, and maintaining ongoing education to ensure accuracy in scoring.
Q: How do you handle disagreements in NIHSS scoring between different staff members?
Expected Answer: They should explain the importance of standardization, suggest conducting side-by-side assessments, and mention the value of regular team calibration sessions to ensure consistent scoring.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What would make you re-assess a patient using the NIHSS outside of regular assessment times?
Expected Answer: Should mention changes in patient condition, new symptoms, after interventions, or when requested by the medical team, showing understanding of when additional assessments are needed.
Q: How do you explain NIHSS scores to patients and families?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to communicate complex medical information in simple terms, explain the scoring system's meaning, and discuss how it relates to recovery progress.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic components of an NIHSS assessment?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list the main areas assessed: consciousness, eye movements, visual fields, facial movements, arm and leg strength, sensation, language, and speech.
Q: What do you do if you're unsure about scoring a specific item on the NIHSS?
Expected Answer: Should mention consulting the scoring guide, asking a more experienced nurse for help, and the importance of accurate documentation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic NIHSS assessment completion
- Documentation of stroke symptoms
- Understanding of stroke care basics
- Following stroke protocols
Mid (2-5 years)
- Quick and accurate NIHSS scoring
- Recognition of subtle changes in scores
- Teaching basic NIHSS to newer nurses
- Emergency stroke response
Senior (5+ years)
- NIHSS program development
- Staff training and certification
- Quality improvement initiatives
- Stroke program coordination
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to complete NIHSS assessment within appropriate timeframe
- Lack of stroke care certification
- No experience with emergency stroke protocols
- Poor understanding of stroke assessment documentation
Related Terms
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