Glasgow coma scale score 3-8, EMR

This code indicates a severe impairment of consciousness, specifically a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score between 3 and 8, documented upon the patient's arrival at the emergency department. A GCS of 3-8 signifies a comatose state or severe brain injury, reflecting a significant neurological deficit.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a GCS score of 3-8 recorded at the time of the patient's presentation to the emergency department. This is typically used for patients presenting with acute head trauma, stroke, anoxic brain injury, or other conditions causing profound altered mental status.

• Always ensure the GCS score is specifically documented as being assessed "at arrival to emergency department" to use this code.
• Do not use this code for GCS scores documented at other times (e.g., in the field, upon admission to inpatient unit) or for GCS scores outside the 3-8 range.
• Sequence this code after the definitive diagnosis (e.g., traumatic brain injury, stroke) if known, as it provides additional clinical detail.