Neurology

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

Assesses the level of consciousness after neurological injury.

Parameters

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) Result

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FormulaGCS = E + V + M

Clinical Pearls

A GCS ≤ 8 is generally considered an indication for intubation for airway protection ("GCS 8, intubate").

Normal Values / Reference

A normal, fully conscious and oriented patient has a maximum GCS score of 15 (E4, V5, M6).

Limitations

May be inaccurate in patients who are intubated, sedated, or have significant facial trauma/swelling.