Modified Rankin Scale (mRS)
Assesses degree of disability and functional independence after stroke or other neurological events. Standard outcome measure in stroke trials and rehabilitation.
Score interpretation
mRS 0–1: No or minimal functional disability.
→ Excellent outcome. Secondary prevention: antiplatelet/anticoagulant, BP management, statin, lifestyle. Neurology follow-up at 3 months.
mRS 2: Slight disability but fully independent.
→ Physiotherapy / occupational therapy assessment. Secondary prevention. Return to driving assessment at 1 month (DVLA guidelines in UK). Vocational assessment if working.
mRS 3: Moderate disability; needs help but ambulant.
→ Multidisciplinary stroke rehabilitation. OT home assessment. Community physiotherapy. Carer support. Emotional wellbeing screening.
mRS 4: Unable to walk or self-care independently.
→ Inpatient rehabilitation. Assess for nursing home care. Carer training. Assistive equipment. Goals-of-care review.
mRS 5: Bedridden, requiring constant care.
→ Nursing care planning. Palliative care input if appropriate. Pressure care, nutrition, chest care. Ongoing goals-of-care discussion with family.
mRS 6: Death.
→ Bereavement support. Stroke audit documentation.
Interpretation bands for the Modified Rankin Scale. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Rankin J. Cerebral vascular accidents in patients over the age of 60. Scot Med J. 1957;2(5):200–215.
- van Swieten JC, et al. Interobserver agreement for the assessment of handicap in stroke patients. Stroke. 1988;19(5):604–607.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Aspirin (Loading Dose) · Antiplatelet — ACS / Ischaemic Stroke
- Alteplase (tPA) · Thrombolytic — Ischaemic Stroke / Massive PE
- Hydrocortisone (Oral Replacement) · Glucocorticoid Replacement
- Morphine (Oral) · Strong Opioid Analgesic — Step 3 WHO Ladder
- Oxycodone · Strong Opioid Analgesic — Step 3 WHO Ladder
- Donanemab (Anti-Amyloid Monoclonal Antibody) · Anti-Amyloid Immunotherapy (IgG1 — Targets Pyroglutamate-Modified Amyloid-β)
- Acute Stroke / TIA Assessment · NICE NG128; RCP Stroke Guidelines 2023
- Status Epilepticus (Adults) · NICE CG137; ESEM guidelines; RCP Neurology Guidelines
- Suspected Subarachnoid Haemorrhage · NICE NG228; RCEM 2023; AHA/ASA 2023
- Adult Head Injury · NICE NG232 (2023)
- Bell's Palsy / Facial Nerve Palsy · ENT UK 2017; AAN
- Vertigo Workup · ENT UK; NICE CKS
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.