Glasgow Coma Scale Calculator
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a neurological assessment tool used to evaluate consciousness in patients after traumatic brain injury or other causes of reduced consciousness.
Eye Opening Response (E)
Verbal Response (V)
Motor Response (M)
Interpretation:
Calculation Method:
The Glasgow Coma Scale score is calculated by adding the points from three parameters: Eye opening (E), Verbal response (V), and Motor response (M).
Formula: GCS = E + V + M
The total score ranges from 3 (worst) to 15 (best).
GCS Score Classification
| GCS Score | Severity | Clinical Implication |
|---|---|---|
| 13-15 | Minor | Mild brain injury |
| 9-12 | Moderate | Moderate brain injury |
| 3-8 | Severe | Severe brain injury (coma) |
Note: A GCS score of 8 or less indicates the need to consider intubation. This calculator is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical assessment.
Glasgow Coma Scale
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was developed in 1974 by professors Graham Teasdale and Bryan J. Jennett at the University of Glasgow. It has become the gold standard for assessing consciousness levels in patients with traumatic brain injuries and other neurological conditions. The scale evaluates three aspects of responsiveness: eye opening, verbal response, and motor response, providing a standardized way to communicate the level of consciousness between healthcare providers.
The GCS is widely used in emergency departments, intensive care units, and neurosurgical settings to monitor changes in a patient’s neurological status over time. A decrease in the GCS score can indicate deterioration and the need for immediate medical intervention, while an improvement suggests recovery. The scale is particularly valuable for its simplicity and reliability in clinical settings.
How to Use the Glasgow Coma Scale Calculator
Step 1: Assess Eye Opening Response
Select the appropriate option that best describes the patient’s eye opening response. Options range from “Does not open eyes” (1 point) to “Opens eyes spontaneously” (4 points). This evaluates the arousal mechanism of the brain stem.
Step 2: Evaluate Verbal Response
Choose the option that matches the patient’s verbal capabilities, from “Makes no sounds” (1 point) to “Oriented, converses normally” (5 points). If the patient is intubated or otherwise unable to speak, check the “Patient is intubated/unable to speak” box.
Step 3: Determine Motor Response
Select the appropriate motor response, ranging from “Makes no movements” (1 point) to “Obeys commands” (6 points). This component assesses the integrity of the motor pathways and is considered the most reliable predictor of outcome.
Step 4: Calculate and Interpret Results
Click the “Calculate GCS Score” button to generate the total score and interpretation. The results will show individual component scores and the total GCS score, along with an explanation of what the score indicates regarding brain injury severity.
Step 5: Document or Reset
Record the results for medical documentation or click “Reset” to perform another assessment. Regular reassessment is crucial for monitoring changes in neurological status over time.