A patient is admitted to the critical care unit with a subdural hematoma.The GCS is used to assess his level of consciousness.Which statement is true concerning the GCS?
A) It provides data about level of consciousness only.
B) It is considered equivalent to a complete neurologic examination.
C) It is a sensitive tool for evaluation of an altered sensorium.
D) It is the most critical assessment parameter to account for possible aphasia.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Several points should be kept in mind when the Glasgow Coma Scale is used for serial assessment.It provides data about level of consciousness only, and it should never be considered a complete neurologic examination.Additionally, it is not a sensitive tool for evaluation of an altered sensorium, and it does not account for possible aphasia or mechanical intubation.It is also a poor indicator of lateralization of neurologic deterioration.

A Patient Is Admitted to the Critical Care Unit with a Subdural