• The Glascow Coma Scale (GCS) was originally derived from data from adult head injuries; its use is therefore not always applicable or reliable in non-traumatic cases (particularly those which are complex) or children under a certain age.
• Scoring Range = 3 to 15.
• Severe is less than 9.
• Scores of 8 or less should prompt strong consideration for airway management via intubation.
• The motor score is the most predictive and clinically useful component.
• See GCS Score below:

 

EYE OPENING
4 = spontaneous
3 = to voice
2 = to pain
1 = none

VERBAL RESPONSE
5 = orientated
4 = confused
3 = inappropriate
2 = incomprehensible
1 = none

MOTOR RESPONSE
6 = obeys command
5 = localizes pain
4 = withdraw to pain
3 = decorticate
2 = decerebrate
1 = none