Glasgow coma scale score 9-12, in the field

This code indicates a moderate impairment of consciousness, as assessed by the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score ranging from 9 to 12, specifically documented during an out-of-hospital encounter. It reflects the patient's neurological status at the time of initial assessment by emergency medical services (EMS) personnel.

Apply this code when EMS documentation clearly states a GCS score between 9 and 12, inclusive, recorded in the pre-hospital setting. This is typically used for patients experiencing head trauma, stroke, or other conditions affecting neurological function prior to hospital admission.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "in the field" or "pre-hospital" to differentiate from hospital-based GCS assessments.
• Always sequence this code after the primary diagnosis describing the condition causing the altered mental status.
• Do not use this code if the GCS score is documented as 8 or less, or 13 or greater, as those have different specific codes.