Which tool is used to rate level of consciousness in brain-injury patients?

• A. Glasgow Coma Scale
• B. APGAR score
• C. Mini-Mental State Examination
• D. Rancho Los Amigos

Answer: (A)

A structured bedside scale that evaluates eye opening, verbal response, and motor response is used to rate the level of consciousness after brain injury. This is the Glasgow Coma Scale, which provides a quick, reliable measure of consciousness and can be tracked over time to assess improvement or deterioration. The total score ranges from 3 to 15, with higher scores indicating better consciousness. Clinically, it helps categorize injury severity (mild, moderate, or severe) and guides urgent management decisions.

Other tools serve different purposes: APGAR is for newborn adaptation, not conscious level after brain injury; the Mini-Mental State Examination screens general cognitive function rather than acute consciousness; and Rancho Los Amigos levels map stages of cognitive recovery, not a single bedside consciousness rating.