The Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale is a neurological exam used to assess patients with any suspected signs or symptoms of stroke.

Facial Droop

Activity

• Instruct the patient to smile and show their teeth.

Findings

• Normal: The face is symmetrical on both sides.
• Abnormal: Facial droop to one side.

Arm Drift

Activity

• Instruct the patient to raise both arms up and hold them out with their eyes closed for up to 10 seconds.

Findings

• Normal: Both arms move together and remain at the same level.
• Abnormal: One arm drifts lower than the other.

Slurred Speech

Activity

• Instruct the patient to say the following: “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”

Findings

• Normal: Speech is clear and correct words are used.
• Abnormal: Aphasia, speech is slurred or incorrect words are used.