CNIM-CS cheat sheet
CNIM-CS · Keep the key ideas within reach.
Neurophysiological signals, sampling and instrumentation
Distinguish electrical potential, magnetic field and evoked response.
Check the whole measurement chain and actual contact quality.
Sampling and filters change what is available for interpretation.
Averaging gains depend on assumptions and do not remove every artifact.
Preparation, patient protection and equipment safety
Verify identity, indication, communication needs and relevant restrictions.
Use actual equipment and infection-control instructions.
Device or medicine changes require appropriate clinical authority.
Patient protection takes priority over obtaining a clean trace.
Complex-spine modalities and structures at risk
Choose modalities according to the actual neural structures at risk.
Compare components and levels before assigning a cause.
Myogenic MEPs and D-waves measure different signals.
EMG thresholds and multimodal coverage are informative but imperfect.
Alert interpretation, parallel checks and response communication
An alert needs context, baseline and an agreed communication plan.
Communicate promptly while technical and clinical checks proceed in parallel.
Describe patterns and correlations without declaring a unique cause.
Document recovery or unresolved findings and ensure appropriate handover.
Anesthesia effects, physiology and stimulation safety
Recognize drug and physiological effects without assuming one exclusive cause.
Neuromuscular blockade can confound muscle responses.
Clinical professionals direct anesthesia and physiological interventions.
Use actual individualized stimulation safeguards and device instructions.
Documentation, integrity and professional communication
Keep identity, laterality and relevant metadata traceable.
Record actual observations and distinguish correlation from causation.
Escalate significant changes promptly with closed-loop communication.
Preserve raw data, processing history and appropriate confidentiality.