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Glasgow Coma Scale

Pronunciation: GLAS-go KOH-mah skale

Also written as: GCS — Glasgow Coma Scale

Standardized neurological assessment tool measuring level of consciousness through eye, verbal, and motor responses.

Full Definition

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a widely used clinical tool for assessing a patient's level of consciousness and neurological function. Developed in 1974, it evaluates three components: eye opening response (scored 1-4), verbal response (scored 1-5), and motor response (scored 1-6). The total score ranges from 3 to 15, with lower scores indicating more severe neurological impairment. The GCS is essential in neurosurgical documentation for tracking patient status and guiding treatment decisions.

Usage

Usage note: Always specify the breakdown of scores (e.g., GCS 9 = E2V2M5) in clinical documentation.

In Context

  • "The patient's Glasgow Coma Scale improved from 8 to 12 following surgical intervention." — progress note
  • "Initial Glasgow Coma Scale was 6, indicating severe neurological compromise." — trauma assessment

Also known as

GCS coma scale

Don't confuse with

Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale FOUR Score
gamma knife radiosurgery ← Back to glossary glioblastoma multiforme

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