A decreased score in one or more of the following categories may signal an impending neurologic crisis. Add the scores for the best response in each category to achieve the total score. 
| Test | Score | Patient's response |
|---|---|---|
| Eye opening | ||
| 4 | Opens eyes spontaneously |
| 3 | Opens eyes to verbal command |
| 2 | Opens eyes to painful stimulus |
| 1 | Doesn't open eyes in response to stimulus |
| Motor response | ||
| 6 | Reacts to verbal command |
| 5 | Identifies localized pain |
| 4 | Flexes and withdraws from painful stimulus |
| 3 | Assumes a decorticate position |
| 2 | Assumes a decerebrate position |
| 1 | No response; just lies flaccid |
| Verbal response | ||
| 5 | Is oriented and converses |
| 4 | Is disoriented and confused |
| 3 | Replies randomly with incorrect words |
| 2 | Moans or screams |
| 1 | No response |
| Total score | ||