Glasgow Coma Scale Flashcards
What is the Glasgow Coma Scale used for?
To assess a patient’s level of consciousness and neurological functioning
It evaluates eye opening, verbal response, and best motor response.
What are the criteria for Eye Opening in the Glasgow Coma Scale?
- Open before stimulus
- Open after spoken or shouted request
- Open after fingertip stimulus
- No opening at any time, no interfering factor
- Closed by local factor
Eye opening is a critical component of the scale.
What does a ‘Verbal response’ score of 5 indicate?
Correctly gives name, place, and date
This represents full orientation.
Fill in the blank: A verbal response of ‘only moans/groans’ scores _______.
2
What is assessed in the ‘Best motor response’ category?
- Obey 2-part request
- Brings hand above clavicle to stimulus on head/neck
- Extends arm at elbow
- Bends arm at elbow rapidly but features not predominantly abnormal
- No movement in arms/legs, no interfering factor
This assesses the patient’s ability to perform motor tasks.
What does a score of 1 indicate in the Glasgow Coma Scale?
No response
This reflects a complete lack of responsiveness.
What physical stimulation techniques are used in the Glasgow Coma Scale assessment?
- Trapezius pinch
- Pressure on fingertip
- Pressure on supraorbital notch
These methods help elicit responses from the patient.
True or False: A score of 3 in the Glasgow Coma Scale indicates a normal level of consciousness.
False
What does a score of 4 in the ‘Best motor response’ category indicate?
Bends arm at elbow, features clearly predominantly abnormal
This suggests a potential neurological issue.
What is the highest possible score in the Glasgow Coma Scale?
15
Fill in the blank: In the Glasgow Coma Scale, ‘Abnormal flexion’ scores _______.
3
What does ‘Localising’ refer to in the Glasgow Coma Scale?
The ability to localize the source of stimulation
This indicates a higher level of motor response.
What is the lowest score possible on the Glasgow Coma Scale?
3
What does a ‘Non testable’ rating indicate?
The response cannot be evaluated due to factors such as paralysis or other limiting factors
This occurs when a patient’s condition prevents assessment.
What does a score of 2 in the ‘Verbal response’ category indicate?
Confused words
This signifies a lack of coherent communication.
What is the significance of the Glasgow Coma Scale in medical assessments?
It provides a standardized method to measure consciousness and neurological status
This aids in determining the severity of brain injury.
