This PedsCases Note provides a one-page infographic on Approach to the Neurological Exam. It covers how to complete a neurological exam, including general appearance, cranial nerves, reflexes, motor, sensation, and gait. It was created by Janelle Trombley with the help of Dr. Colin Wilbur.

Click on the image below for the full-screen PDF handout.

Related Content:

• Podcast: Cranial Nerves

• Note: Assessment of Seizure in the ED

• Podcast: Pediatric Vital Signs

References 

1. Gelb D. The detailed neurologic examination in adults. In: Wilterdink JL, ed. UpToDate. Wolters Kluwer. Published July 1, 2022. Updated December 2023. Accessed July 27, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/the-detailed-neurologic-examination-in-adults

2. Ghosh PS. Detailed neurologic assessment of infants and children. In: Walthall J, ed. UpToDate. Wolters Kluwer. Published August 25, 2022. Updated May 2, 2024. Accessed July 27, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/detailed-neurologic-assessment-of-infants-and-children

3. Ghosh PS. Neurologic examination of the newborn. In: Walthall J, ed. UpToDate. Wolters Kluwer. Published August 25, 2022. Updated May 2, 2024. Accessed July 27, 2025. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/neurologic-examination-of-the-newborn

4. Zafeiriou DI. Primitive reflexes and postural reactions in the neurodevelopmental examination. Pediatric Neurology. 2004 Jul;31(1):1–8. doi: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2004.01.012.