Which statement correctly states the maximum and minimum GCS scores?

• A. The maximum possible GCS score is 14; the lowest is 3.
• B. The maximum possible GCS score is 15; the lowest is 3.
• C. The maximum possible GCS score is 15; the lowest is 2.
• D. The maximum possible GCS score is 13; the lowest is 3.

Answer: (B)

The Glasgow Coma Scale measures level of consciousness using three parts: eye opening, verbal response, and motor response. Each part has its own range: eye opening 1 to 4, verbal response 1 to 5, and motor response 1 to 6. The total score is the sum of these three, so the overall range is 3 to 15. The highest total occurs when all responses are at their best—eye opens spontaneously (4), verbal response is oriented (5), and motor response follows commands (6)—adding up to 15. The lowest total occurs when there is no eye opening (1), no verbal response (1), and no motor response (1)—adding up to 3. Therefore, the maximum is 15 and the minimum is 3. Note that if a patient is intubated, the verbal portion may not be assessable, which can affect the total score.