GCS Calculator (Glasgow Coma Scale)
Assess level of consciousness and brain injury severity using the Glasgow Coma Scale
Calculate Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)
Example Calculation
Patient After Brain Injury
Clinical Presentation:
• Opens eyes when you speak to them
• Can hold a conversation but seems disoriented
• Flexes elbow and wrist when pressure applied to nail bed
GCS Assessment
• Eye Response: 3 points (opens to voice)
• Verbal Response: 4 points (confused/disoriented)
• Motor Response: 4 points (flexion/withdrawal)
Total GCS Score: 11 points (Moderate brain injury)
GCS Score Ranges
Minor
Mild brain injury
Moderate
Moderate brain injury
Severe
Severe brain injury
Quick Reference
GCS ≤ 8: Consider intubation
Minimum possible score: 3
Maximum possible score: 15
Record individual components (E/V/M)
Medical Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical assessment. The Glasgow Coma Scale should be performed by trained healthcare professionals. Always consult with medical professionals for clinical decisions. In emergency situations, seek immediate medical attention.
Understanding the Glasgow Coma Scale
What is the Glasgow Coma Scale?
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a neurological scale developed in 1974 by Graham Teasdale and Bryan Jennett at the University of Glasgow. It's used to assess the level of consciousness and neurological functioning in patients with brain injuries.
When to Use GCS
- •After any major trauma
- •In cases of loss of consciousness
- •Suspicion of brain injury
- •Patients in intensive care units
- •Serial neurological assessments
Clinical Significance
Prognostic Value
GCS scores correlate with patient outcomes and mortality rates. Lower scores indicate more severe injuries and poorer prognosis.
Treatment Decisions
GCS scores guide critical treatment decisions, including the need for intubation, surgical intervention, and level of care required.
Communication Tool
Provides standardized way for healthcare teams to communicate about patient status and track changes over time.