Modified Rankin Scale (mRS)
Measures degree of disability/dependence in daily activities following stroke or neurological disorder. The primary outcome measure in most stroke trials. Scored 0 (no symptoms) to 6 (death).
Score interpretation
→ mRS 0–1: Excellent stroke outcome — no or minimal disability. Return to usual activities; community stroke follow-up; secondary prevention (antiplatelets/anticoagulation, statin, BP control); driving assessment if appropriate.
→ mRS 2: Good outcome — slight disability but independent. Community rehabilitation; occupational therapy; maintain secondary prevention; support return to work; 6-month stroke clinic review.
→ mRS 3: Moderate disability — requires some assistance. Multidisciplinary rehabilitation; community physio/OT/speech therapy; carer assessment; disability aids; driving restriction likely; social services.
→ mRS 4–5: Severe disability — highly dependent or bedridden. Long-term care planning; community nursing; pressure area care; continence management; dysphagia management; carer support; consider advance care planning.
→ mRS 6: Death. Bereavement support for family; carer signposting.
Interpretation bands for the Modified Rankin Scale. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
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.