PATTY NOAH is the director of the neuro intensive care unit at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. Whether it's a brief check of neurological status or a comprehensive neuro exam, your assessment may uncover nervous system dysfunction before it's too late. The neuro assessment is a key component in the care of the neurological patient. It can help you detect the presence of neurological disease or injury and monitor its progression, determine the type of care you'll provide, and gauge the patient's response to your interventions.