If a pediatric patient has an altered mental status but other parameters are normal, what would be their Pediatric Glasgow Coma Scale score?

The Pediatric Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a tool used to assess the level of consciousness in children, similar to its use in adults, but it takes into account the developmental differences in pediatric populations. The scale is broken down into three components: eye opening, verbal response, and motor response, with the scores ranging from 3 (indicating deep unconsciousness) to 15 (indicating full consciousness).

In this scenario, the pediatric patient has an altered mental status, suggesting that their level of responsiveness is diminished when assessed. Since other parameters are normal—indicating no apparent issues with vital signs or other physiological functions—this can suggest that while there might be some cognitive impairment, the overall alertness is not severely compromised.

A GCS score of 14 accounts for a mild alteration in consciousness; typically, a score in this range indicates that the child can open their eyes spontaneously, is oriented to person, place, and time, and can follow commands appropriately. This aligns with the indication of altered mental status without severe impairment.

Thus, when considering the typical scoring rubric for the Pediatric GCS and the described condition of the patient, a score of 14 is appropriate, representing a mild impairment rather than a moderate or severe one.