Assessment Tool: Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

Score each of the three components based on the patient's best response. GCS ≤ 8 indicates severe neurological impairment requiring immediate airway assessment.

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

Standardised neurological assessment of level of consciousness across three domains: eye opening, verbal response, and motor response. Total score 3–15. Developed by Teasdale and Jennett (1974).

GCS severity guide

13–15

Mild / no impairment

9–12

Moderate impairment

3–8

Severe impairment / coma

Eye Opening (E)
Verbal Response (V)
Motor Response (M)