Final answer:
The neurological exam is an important clinical tool used to assess the function of the central nervous system. It is used to determine the specific areas of the CNS that are affected by damage or disease. This assessment is crucial for providing proper treatment and determining the potential extent of recovery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The neurological exam is a clinical assessment tool used to determine what specific parts of the CNS are affected by damage or disease. It can be performed in a short time—sometimes as quickly as 5 minutes—to establish neurological function. In the emergency department, this rapid assessment can make the difference with respect to proper treatment and the extent of recovery that is possible.