What is the maximum score of Glasgow Coma (GCS) scale?

Appeared in: NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a neurological assessment tool used to measure a person's level of consciousness after a brain injury.
The total score is the sum of scores from three categories: Eye Opening (E), Verbal Response (V), and Motor Response (M).
The maximum score is 15, which is calculated from the highest possible scores in each category: E4 + V5 + M6 = 15.
A score of 15 indicates a fully awake, alert, and oriented patient.

Option B: A score of 12 is not the maximum score. It falls within the range for a moderate brain injury (9-12).
Option C: A score of 3 is the minimum possible score on the GCS, not the maximum. It indicates a deep coma or unresponsiveness.
Option D: A score of 10 is not the maximum score. It falls within the range for a moderate brain injury (9-12).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) Scoring as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The GCS is a critical tool for nurses to objectively assess and document a patient's level of consciousness, especially after a head injury or in critically ill patients.
A decline in the GCS score, particularly a drop of 2 or more points, is a significant finding that indicates a worsening neurological condition and must be reported to the physician immediately.
A GCS score of 8 or less is a critical indicator of severe brain injury and often necessitates airway protection, such as intubation, to prevent aspiration and ensure adequate oxygenation.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question asking for a specific value associated with a standard clinical scale.
First, identify the tool mentioned: the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS).
Recall the purpose of the GCS (assessing consciousness) and its three components (Eye, Verbal, Motor).
Remember the maximum score for each component: Eye=4, Verbal=5, and Motor=6.
Sum the maximum scores of the components (4 + 5 + 6) to find the total maximum score.
Select the option that matches this calculated maximum score.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Guide to Mental Health & PSYCHIATRIC NURSING R Sreevani— Part 2 (pp 290-564 of 579) p. 196-198

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 1475-1477

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 412-414

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