⚕️ For clinical reference only. Not a substitute for professional judgment.
Glasgow Coma Scale GCS
Objective measure of level of consciousness. Used in trauma, post-cardiac arrest, and any altered conscious state.
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Select responses below
Toggle each component to calculate.
Eye Opening (E)
Verbal Response (V)
Motor Response (M)
When to use
- Any patient with altered consciousness — trauma, metabolic, post-ictal, intoxication
- Trauma — GCS ≤8 triggers airway management consideration
- Monitoring for neurological deterioration — document serially
- Post-resuscitation neurological assessment
Formula
GCS = E + V + M
Range: 3 (minimum) to 15 (normal)
≤8 = severe (unable to protect airway)
9–12 = moderate
13–14 = mild
15 = normal
Range: 3 (minimum) to 15 (normal)
≤8 = severe (unable to protect airway)
9–12 = moderate
13–14 = mild
15 = normal
References
- Teasdale G, Jennett B. Assessment of coma and impaired consciousness. Lancet. 1974.
- NICE CG176 — Head injury. 2023.
- JRCALC Clinical Guidelines 2022.