GCS Station Pro
Standardized Glasgow Coma Scale & Pupil Reactivity HUD
Neurological Examination
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Understanding GCS and GCS-P Scoring
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is the global standard for assessing a patient's level of consciousness after traumatic brain injury. Ranging from 3 to 15, the score helps clinicians categorize the severity of brain injury and make critical triage decisions.
The Modern GCS-P Standard
Traditional GCS focuses on behavioral responses. The GCS-P (GCS minus Pupil Reactivity Score) adds a vital physiological dimension. By subtracting points for non-reactive pupils, the GCS-P provides more granular prognostic information regarding brainstem function and potential herniation risk.
Injury Severity Classifications
- GCS 13-15: Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.
- GCS 9-12: Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury.
- GCS 3-8: Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (Coma).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "GCS 8" rule?
Clinically, a GCS of 8 or less indicates a patient who may be unable to protect their airway. This often serves as the threshold for considering intubation to prevent aspiration and ensure adequate oxygenation.
How do I score a patient who is intubated?
For intubated patients, the Verbal component cannot be assessed. This is typically recorded as "T" (e.g., GCS 10T), meaning the patient is intubated, and only the Eye and Motor components are summed.
Clinical References
- 1. Teasdale G, Jennett B. Assessment of coma and impaired consciousness. A practical scale. Lancet. 1974.
- 2. Paul M. Brennan, et al. GCS-Pupil Score: a practical mechanism for combining the GCS and pupil reactivity. PLOS ONE. 2018.
CLINICAL RESOURCE
Verified Neuro-Critical Care Model