How to Assess the Level of Unconsciousness in a Patient Using Glasgow Coma Scale

This is a simple assessment tool for objectifying a patients level of consciousness.
it provides for accurate graphical recording of three aspects of behavioural response
namely;
-Eye opening
-Best verbal response
-Motor response
The patients best response in each area is given a numerical value and the three values
are totalled for a score ranging 3 to 15.A score of 7 or less indicates coma.
The assesssment should be performed at appropriate intervals to determine current
level of changes in patient level of consciousness usually every 2 to 4 hours.
Other indications such as vital signs,pupillary reaction,movement of extremities,
strength etc should also be assessed.

Uncovered:Physical Care For Unconscious Patient

Unconsciousness is a condition in which the patient is unresponsive to and unawre of the environment stimuli.It is the term usually reserved for unresponsiveness of short duration.Coma is a clinical state of unconsciosness in which the patient is unaware of self or the environment for prolonged period(days-months or even years
SOME CAUSES OF UNCONSCIOUSNESS;
-neurolgical-headinjury,stroke.
-toxicologic
-drug overdose,acohol inttoxication.
-metabolic-in hepatic or renal failure,diabeti ketoacidosis.ey
-psychogenic-form of hysteria as seen in psychiatric patient
PHYSICAL CARE;
-maintain intact skin intergrity by two hourly turning and fourly treament of pressure areas,-eye care;pad eye with normal saline if open to aboid excessive dryness of the cornea.
-oral care;
clean mouth three times daily with oraldene mouth wash.Lubricate the lips with petroleum jelly,-bowel and bladder care;
change diaper when it is wet,insert urinary catheter,clean cather insertin site daily