Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) Practice Exam 2025 - Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

Question: 1 / 400

What GCS score is typically an indication for intubation?

4 to 10

8 or below

A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 8 or below indicates that a patient is at significant risk for airway compromise. This level of consciousness suggests that the individual may be unable to maintain their own airway due to reduced responsiveness, which can lead to inadequate ventilation and oxygenation. Intubation is often required in this scenario to secure the airway and ensure proper ventilation.

When the GCS is at or below this threshold, the likelihood of neurological impairment is considerable, and protective reflexes such as coughing and gagging are often diminished or absent. Consequently, patients with such a score may not be able to respond effectively if their airway becomes obstructed or if they experience respiratory distress. Therefore, emergency interventions, including intubation, are warranted to protect the airway and support ventilation efforts in these critical situations.

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10 to 15

5 to 8

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