Approach to low GCS

examination

investigating: why low GCS?

resp

  • hypercapnia

metabolic

  • hypoglycaemia

neurological

  • Intracranial event
  • Seizure

slowly dangerous (coma without lateralising signs)

  • drugs
  • post-ictal
  • sepsis
  • stroke (brainstem)
  • hepatic encephalopathy

by the bedside:

  • What is the baseline?
  • When were they last GCS 15?

management

#incomplete #icu #foundation

The unconscious child

https://derangedphysiology.com/main/required-reading/neurological-intensive-care/Chapter-412/approach-unconscious-patient-icu
https://litfl.com/examination-of-the-unconscious-patient/