Glasgow Coma Scale
Pronunciation: GLAS-goh KOH-mah skayl
Also written as: GCS — Glasgow Coma Scale
Standardized neurological scale used to assess level of consciousness in patients with brain injury.
Full Definition
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a widely used clinical tool that provides a standardized method for assessing consciousness level in patients with brain injury or altered mental status. The scale evaluates three components: eye opening response (1-4 points), verbal response (1-5 points), and motor response (1-6 points), with total scores ranging from 3-15. In pediatric neurology, age-appropriate modifications are essential, particularly for the verbal component in non-verbal children or infants. Scores of 13-15 indicate mild injury, 9-12 moderate injury, and 3-8 severe injury. The pediatric GCS adjusts expectations for developmental capabilities in younger children.
Usage
Usage note: Use age-appropriate pediatric modifications. Document individual component scores (E/V/M) in addition to total score.
In Context
- "The patient's GCS improved from 8 to 12 following decompressive surgery for traumatic brain injury." — Neurosurgery progress note
- "Pediatric GCS modifications were used given the patient's developmental age of 18 months." — Emergency department triage assessment