Page 224 - PJ MED OPS Handbook 8th Ed

The neuro exam is important for us to:
1. Diagnose a problem.
2. To establish a baseline with which to reassess clinical stability, deterioration and need for inter-
vention, or response to an intervention.
3. To establish a baseline for the next level of caregiver to continue to monitor stability, and re-
sponse to/or need for interventions.
All patients in every situation should always be noted to their level of consciousness (AVPU) since it
is pertinent in all clinical situations. Do not write “LOC” in neuro exam since it can be confused with
“loss of consciousness”.
The complete neuro exam should be performed in patients exposed to blast, blunt or penetrat-
ing head trauma, falls from heights, dive medicine scenario, possible stroke patients, and signs of
skull base fracture. If time permits or in an extended care tactical situation, a complete exam on any
patient with head or spine injury is appropriate.

(Anyone who is walking normally, talking and responding to you normally, moving their face and
arms, and turning their head to listen to or look at you generally has a normal neuro exam.)

222 n Pararescue Medical Operations Handbook / 8th Edition