What does a GCS score of 15 mean?

What does a GCS score of 15 mean?

• A. Normal range
• B. Mild impairment
• C. Moderate impairment
• D. Severe impairment

Answer: (A)

Glasgow Coma Scale measures level of consciousness by three elements: eye opening, verbal response, and motor response. Each part has a score, and the total can be as high as 15. A fully alert person who opens their eyes spontaneously, speaks clearly and coherently, and follows commands earns the maximum total. That is why a score of 15 indicates a normal range of consciousness with no impairment in arousal or basic cognition. Lower totals reflect varying degrees of impairment: mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how much responsiveness is reduced. Remember that sometimes the verbal component can't be assessed if the person is intubated, but the interpretation still centers on overall responsiveness and wakefulness.

Glasgow Coma Scale measures level of consciousness by three elements: eye opening, verbal response, and motor response. Each part has a score, and the total can be as high as 15. A fully alert person who opens their eyes spontaneously, speaks clearly and coherently, and follows commands earns the maximum total. That is why a score of 15 indicates a normal range of consciousness with no impairment in arousal or basic cognition. Lower totals reflect varying degrees of impairment: mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how much responsiveness is reduced. Remember that sometimes the verbal component can't be assessed if the person is intubated, but the interpretation still centers on overall responsiveness and wakefulness.