Glasgow Coma Scale (1)

The tool we use to assess the level of consciousness is the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). This tool is used at the bedside in conjunction with other clinical observations and it allows us to have a baseline and ongoing measurement of the level of consciousness (LOC) for our patients. The GCS has been in use in clinical practice for approximately forty years and is used universally around the world.

Using a universal assessment tool allows us as clinicians to quantify LOC of people in our care and produces a shared understanding of patients' conditions.

Behaviour	Response	Score
Eye Opening	Spontaneous	4
	To sound	3
	To pressure	2
	None	1
Verbal Response	Orientated	5
	Confused	4
	Words	3
	Sounds	2
	None	1
Motor Response	Obeys commands	6
	Localise to pain	5
	Normal flexion	4
	Abnormal flexion	3
	Extension	2
	None	1