What assessment checks the strength of each limb in a neurological exam?

The assessment that checks the strength of each limb in a neurological exam is the motor scale evaluation. This evaluation is specifically designed to assess muscle strength and function through various movements and coordinated actions in the limbs. By using this scale, healthcare providers can determine the strength gradation in each limb, which can reveal underlying neurological conditions or deficits.

In a typical motor scale evaluation, the provider might ask the patient to perform specific actions, such as raising arms or legs against resistance, to quantify the strength on a scale. This detailed assessment helps clinicians diagnose issues related to motor control, strength, and coordination, which are central to neurological health.

In contrast, the other assessments mentioned focus on different aspects of neurological function: the cardinal positions of gaze assess eye movement and coordination; PERRLA (pupils equal, round, reactive to light and accommodation) evaluates pupillary response and CNS function; and the speech fluency test examines the patient's ability to articulate and form coherent speech. Each of these evaluations provides valuable information but does not specifically check limb strength like the motor scale evaluation does.