Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a neurological tool which was initially used to assess the state of consciousness after a head injury. GCS is now being utilized in most acute medical, trauma, and ICU patients. The original tool has a 14-point scale while the most recent one has a 15-point scale. The elements of the scale measure eye response (if they open), verbal response (if sounds, words, or conversations are evident), and motor response (if movements, flexions, and actions in response to instructions are made). GCS was created by Graham Teasdale and Bryan Jennett, neurosurgery professors at the University of Glasgow, in 1974.