Five Minute Neurological Exam

1.  Orientation
Divers Name:
Date:
Details of the dive:
Where are they located:
What did they eat last:
Notes:

2.  Eyes  -Hold head still, have patient follow your finger up, down, left, right at approximately 18 inches from his face.  Note if eyes track equally and if there is "jerky movements.  Pupils should be equal and responsive to light.
Notes:

3.  Forehead  -Have the patient close their eyes.  Touch the forehead and face lightly.  Note any numbness.  Have the diver wiggle their eyebrows, they should move equally.
Notes:

4.  Face  -Have the patient whistle.  Watch the "pucker".  Note any drooping of lips.  Have the patient smile.  Have the patient clench the teeth, feel the jaw for equal tension of muscles.
Notes:

5.  Ears  -Have the patient close their eyes, rub your thumb and forefinger together about 2 feet away and move it closer until the patient hears the noise.  Note the distance.  Note any ringing or auditory disturbance.
Notes:

6.  Gag reflex  -Have the patient swallow, watch the movement of the "adams apple" up and down.

Notes:

7.  Tongue  -Have the patient stick their tongue out.  Note any droop or abnormal movements side to side.
Notes:

8.  Shoulders  -Place your hands on the patient's shoulders and have them "shrug".  Note any difference in strength.  Also check for skin sensation.
Notes:

9.  Arms  -Have the patient squeeze your fingers with both hands at the same time, notice any difference in strength.  Have the patient hold his hands together at chest level and elbows high.  Gently push and pull the elbows while the patient resists the movement.  Notice any difference in strength.  Check for skin sensation.
Notes:

10.  Chest  -Have the patient close their eyes, check for skin sensation.
Notes:

11.  Legs  -Have the patient lay flat.  Raise and lower the legs while the patient resists.  Check for difference in strength.
Notes:

12.  Heel-to-toe  -If possible, have the patient walk heel to toe and check balance and coordination.  Make sure the patient does not fall!
Notes:

Name of Person conducting test:
Time test conducted:
Perform hourly as necessary or if treatment is delayed.