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The NIH Stroke Scale Certification

Everything you need to know about the NIHSS credential.

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Written by Erica Rodriguez
Updated over 2 weeks ago

The NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is a standardized tool used by healthcare professionals to rapidly and objectively assess the neurological deficits caused by an acute stroke. It evaluates key aspects of brain function, including consciousness, vision, sensation, movement, speech, and language. Certification in its administration is a critical credential for clinicians working in stroke care.


What it is?

  • A critical tool for assessing the severity of a stroke in a patient.

  • A certification that allows healthcare professionals to evaluate and document neurological status in acute stroke patients.


Who needs it?

  • Required for RNs looking to work in the ICU, Stepdown, and Emergency Units.


Where to get it?

ShiftMed accepts certifications from:

  • American Heart Association (AHA)

    • The AHA course is online and CME/CE certified

    • Cost is $10 ($0 for AHA members)

  • Blue Cloud

  • Apex

  • AA CME

Course Details

  • The course has six test groups (A through F), each with six patients.

  • Evaluating one entire group is satisfactory for a course completion certificate.

Expiration & Renewal

  • Test Group A: Valid for one year, renewable at 6 months.

  • Test Groups B-F: Valid for 24 months, renewable after 12 months.


Questions?

If you have any questions, reach out to us in chat by going into the ShiftMed App > Menu > Help Center > Chat & Help Articles > Ask a Question!

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