Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) — Free Online Calculator
Input
Glasgow Coma Scale
15
Mild brain injury
E4 + V5 + M6 = 15
About This Calculator
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a neurological scale used to assess the level of consciousness in patients with acute brain injury. It evaluates three components: eye opening, verbal response, and motor response. The GCS is widely used in emergency medicine and critical care for initial assessment, ongoing monitoring, and prognostication.
Formula
Interpretation
| GCS Score | Severity | Clinical Implication |
|---|---|---|
| 13 – 15 | Mild | Generally good prognosis |
| 9 – 12 | Moderate | Close monitoring required |
| 3 – 8 | Severe | Intubation usually required |
References
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lowest and highest possible GCS score?
The GCS ranges from 3 (deep coma or death) to 15 (fully awake and oriented). A score of 3 means the patient has no eye opening, no verbal response, and no motor response.
At what GCS score should a patient be intubated?
A GCS of 8 or below is generally considered an indication for endotracheal intubation to protect the airway. This threshold is commonly summarized as 'GCS less than 8, intubate.'
Can GCS be used for intubated patients?
The verbal component cannot be assessed in intubated patients. It is recorded as '1T' (T for tube) and the total score is reported with a 'T' suffix (e.g., 8T). Some institutions score only Eye and Motor components in intubated patients.
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⚠ Medical Disclaimer
This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for clinical decisions.