What is the purpose of the Glasgow Coma Scale?

• A. Determine risk of infection
• B. Quantify level of consciousness based on eye opening, verbal, motor
• C. Evaluate sensory perception
• D. Assess motor strength only

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how we quantify a person’s level of consciousness after brain injury. The Glasgow Coma Scale is a bedside tool that assigns a numeric score by assessing three areas: eye opening, verbal response, and motor response. Each area has its own scoring options, and the total score (ranging from 3 to 15) gives a standardized measure of consciousness and helps track changes over time. This is why the correct choice describes quantifying consciousness based on eye opening, verbal, and motor responses. It’s not about infection risk, sensory perception, or motor strength alone—the scale specifically combines those three domains to reflect the patient’s level of consciousness.