Coma scale, eyes open, never, at hospital admission Save

Understanding Coma Scale: Eyes Open, Never, at Hospital Admission

A coma is a state of deep unconsciousness in which an individual is unresponsive to external stimuli. To assess the severity of a coma, medical professionals use a standardized tool called the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). One component of the GCS is the assessment of eye response, where the scale ranges from 'Eyes Open, Spontaneously' to 'Eyes Never Open.' In this article, we will focus on the specific category of 'Eyes Open, Never' at hospital admission.

At hospital admission, if a patient is scored as 'Eyes Open, Never' on the GCS, it indicates a severe level of unconsciousness. This means that the patient does not exhibit any voluntary eye movement or opening of the eyes, even in response to painful stimuli. It suggests a profound neurological impairment and necessitates immediate medical attention.

It is crucial to note that the GCS is just one tool used by healthcare professionals to assess a patient's condition. Other factors, such as vital signs, medical history, and diagnostic tests, are also taken into consideration to determine the underlying cause of the coma.

1. Possible Causes: Various medical conditions can lead to a patient presenting with 'Eyes Open, Never' on the GCS. These causes may include severe head injuries, stroke, brain tumors, drug overdose, or metabolic abnormalities. Identifying the root cause is essential for determining appropriate treatment and management strategies.
2. Diagnostic Procedures: Once the initial assessment is complete, healthcare professionals will likely order additional diagnostic tests to further investigate the underlying cause of the coma. These tests may include brain imaging scans, blood tests, electroencephalography (EEG), or lumbar puncture.
3. Supportive Care: Patients in a coma require intensive medical care and monitoring. They may be placed on life support systems to maintain vital functions, such as breathing and circulation. Additionally, measures to prevent complications like pressure sores, pneumonia, or blood clots are implemented.

It is important to emphasize that treatment options and outcomes for patients with 'Eyes Open, Never' on the GCS vary depending on the underlying cause and individual circumstances. Therefore, it is crucial for medical professionals to collaborate and develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.

In conclusion, a patient scoring 'Eyes Open, Never' on the Glasgow Coma Scale at hospital admission indicates a severe level of unconsciousness. Prompt medical intervention, diagnostic procedures, and supportive care are essential to identify the cause and provide appropriate management. However, the treatment approach will differ based on the patient's individual circumstances.