The Glasgow Coma Scale

The Glasgow Coma Scale was introduced by Graham Teasdale and Lord Jennet in 1974. Till date, it is the most widely used and accepted measure of level of consciousness. The scale has 3 parameters as defined below. Obtainable scores are from 3 to 15 with scores below 15 indicating diminished levels of consciousness. A patient with a score of 8 or below is said to be in coma.

The scale is renowned for its simplicity, reproducibility and objectivity. It provides a fast means of patient assessment which can be used by various cadres of health workers including paramedics, nurses and physicians.

Parameter Numerical Value

Eye Opening
Spontaneous 4
To speech 3
To pain 2
None 1

Best Verbal Response
Orientated 5
Confused 4
Inappreopriate 3
Incomprehensible sounds 2
None 1

Best Motor Response
Obeys commands 6
Localizes pain 5
Flexion withdrawal 4
Abnormal flexion 3
Extension to pain 2
None 1

TOTAL 3-15