Mastering the Glasgow Coma Scale

A series of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the Glasgow Coma Scale lecture.

Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS)

A standardized tool used to assess a patient's level of consciousness and neurological function.

Eye Opening Response

A component of the GCS that measures a patient's alertness: scores range from spontaneous eye opening (4) to no eye opening (1).

Verbal Response

A component of the GCS that assesses a patient's orientation and cognitive function, with a maximum score of 5 for fully oriented responses.

Motor Response

A component of the GCS that evaluates a patient's ability to follow commands and respond to stimuli, being the most predictive of neurological status.

Objective Measurement

An assessment that relies on observable and quantifiable data, reducing reliance on subjective descriptions.

Total GCS Score

The sum of eye, verbal, and motor response scores that indicates the severity of brain injury, ranging from 3 (deep coma) to 15 (fully alert).

Documentation Protocol

A standardized method of recording GCS scores, including notation of 'NT' for non-testable situations due to physical conditions.

Critical Baseline

The initial GCS score that helps in tracking neurological changes over time.

Neurological Deterioration

A decline in neurological function that can be assessed using the Glasgow Coma Scale.

GCS of 8 or less

A critical score indicating the need for airway support and potential intubation.

Standardized Stimuli

Consistent methods of applying stimuli used during GCS assessments to ensure accuracy, such as fingertip pressure and trapezius squeeze.

Abnormal Posturing

A motor response indicating severe neurological compromise, often classified as decerebrate or decorticate.

Mild Brain Injury

A GCS score ranging from 13 to 15 indicating less severe impairment.

Moderate Brain Injury

A GCS score ranging from 9 to 12 suggesting moderate neurological impairment.

Severe Brain Injury

A GCS score of 8 or less indicating significant neurological compromise requiring urgent medical intervention.