Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS)

The Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) is a standardized assessment tool used to evaluate the functional outcomes and disability levels of individuals suffering from traumatic brain injury. It provides a structured and comprehensive way of categorizing the overall recovery and prognosis of patients.

Categories of GOS

The GOS consists of the following five outcome categories:

1. Dead
2. Vegetative State
3. Severe Disability
4. Moderate Disability
5. Good Recovery

1. Dead

This category is assigned when the patient has died due to the traumatic brain injury, either immediately or during the course of treatment and recovery.

2. Vegetative State

In this category, patients remain in a state of wakefulness without any awareness of their surroundings. They show no meaningful response to stimuli and have limited or no behavioral or cognitive functions.

3. Severe Disability

Patients in this category have a severe degree of functional impairment. They may be conscious and have some level of self-care abilities, but they require significant assistance for activities of daily living and are often dependent on others for their basic needs.

4. Moderate Disability

Patients in this category have a moderate level of functional impairment. They can live independently to some extent but may still experience limitations in certain areas, such as employment or social activities. They usually require assistance for complex tasks and may have cognitive or physical disabilities.

5. Good Recovery

This category is assigned when the patient has made a near-complete or complete recovery from the traumatic brain injury. They are able to independently carry out their daily activities and have minimal or no disabilities that affect their overall functioning and quality of life.