Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) Calculator
Select one response in each category.
What is Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) Calculator
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a standard way to describe a patient's level of consciousness. It scores three responses, eye opening (1 to 4), verbal response (1 to 5), and motor response (1 to 6), which add up to a total from 3 to 15. A higher total means a more responsive patient. The total is commonly graded as severe (3 to 8), moderate (9 to 12), or mild (13 to 15).
How to use
- Pick the best eye-opening response you observe.
- Pick the best verbal response.
- Pick the best motor response.
- Read the total out of 15, the E-V-M breakdown, and the severity band.
When to use it
Documenting a head-injured patient who opens eyes to speech, is confused, and localizes pain? Select those and you get E3 V4 M5, a total of 12, in the moderate range. Recording the three components alongside the total is what lets the next clinician see exactly how the score was reached.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal Glasgow Coma Scale score?
A fully alert person scores 15 (E4 V5 M6). The lowest possible score is 3, which is scored 1 in every component. There is no score of 0.
What do the GCS severity bands mean?
A total of 13 to 15 is usually classed as mild, 9 to 12 as moderate, and 3 to 8 as severe. A GCS of 8 or less is a common threshold that prompts consideration of airway protection.
Why record the three components separately?
The E, V, and M scores carry more information than the total alone. Two patients with a total of 10 can differ clinically, so recording E-V-M (for example E3 V3 M4) shows exactly which responses were impaired.
Can I share this tool with my inputs pre-filled?
Yes. The URL updates automatically as you select responses. Copy it from the address bar or use the Share button — anyone who opens the link will see your exact score ready to go.
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