Human Kinetics
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Spine Injury Management in Sport

Performing an Initial Evaluation

Focused Assessment

The GCS allows you to observe the injured athlete and report on the best eye, verbal, and motor responses produced. Each time the injured athlete is observed, record the responses:

E# + V# + M# = GCS total

The total score for each observation should be between 3 and 15. A GCS score of 13 or higher correlates with a mild brain injury, 9 to 12 correlates with a moderate injury, and 8 or less correlates with a severe brain injury. Remember to look for any indication that the athlete's condition is improving or worsening. Here's an example of how the GCS might be used.