What does the Glasgow Coma Scale measure?

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is specifically designed to assess a patient's level of consciousness, making it a vital tool in medical settings, particularly for patients with head injuries or altered mental status. The GCS evaluates three key components: eye opening response, verbal response, and motor response. Each component is scored, and the total score helps healthcare professionals determine the severity of a person's impairment in conscious awareness.

By quantifying the level of consciousness, the GCS provides essential information regarding a patient's neurological status and facilitates communication among healthcare providers regarding the patient’s condition. It does not focus on physical injuries as a whole, the effectiveness of motor skills in a broader context, nor does it assess psychiatric disorders. Instead, it creates a clear picture of the patient's responsiveness and potential need for immediate medical intervention.