Anatomically, the cranial nerves travel through distinct locations in the brain, and because of this assessing them can sometimes give us early and detailed information about brain injury.

Why are neuro checks important?

A neurological exam is used to help find out if you have a disorder of the nervous system. Early diagnosis can help you get the right treatment and may decrease long-term complications.

What is special about cranial nerves?

Cranial nerves relay information between the brain and parts of the body, primarily to and from regions of the head and neck, including the special senses of vision, taste, smell, and hearing. ... The cranial nerves are in contrast to spinal nerves, which emerge from segments of the spinal cord.