NCLEX-RN Glasgow Coma Scale Cheat Sheet (Free Printable)

164 words, all claims traceable to the JSON (the sheet's "≤8 means intubate" tagline was left out because it conflicts with the sourced "under 8 = coma" row; the NICE/999 red flag was omitted as UK-specific and nonessential for an intro).

This cheat sheet puts the Glasgow Coma Scale on a single page, and the NCLEX-RN tests that scale because neuro assessment questions hinge on scoring it correctly. The sheet breaks the scale into its three components: eye opening response, scored 4 down to 1; verbal response, scored 5 down to 1; and motor response, scored 6 down to 1. You get the exact descriptor for every score, from spontaneous eye opening to no eye opening, from oriented speech to incomprehensible speech, from obeying commands to decorticate flexion and decerebrate extension.

The bedside points matter too: a combined score under 8 means coma and may suggest severe traumatic brain injury, and the first action is ensuring airway, ventilation, oxygenation, and blood pressure. Use the sheet as a drill. Cover the scores, recall each descriptor, then tally E, V, and M until the numbering is automatic. Scores follow Teasdale and Jennett 1974 as adapted by Merck, so defer to your facility protocol for assessment and documentation.

Tap to open the full-size image in a new tab.

Scores per Teasdale and Jennett 1974 as adapted by Merck - follow your facility protocol for assessment and documentation.

Want to practice applying this under exam pressure? NCLEX Kingdom has thousands of NCLEX-style questions - start free in your browser.