Concussion/TBI

[Amy Sardy]

Hello,
For acquired brain injury and the scales used immediately following injury and during recovery, I understand that the GCS is first employed. Then there is the RLAS (Level of Cognitive Function Scale) which has 1-10, with 1 being the lowest response. But then there is the Pediatric Levels Of Consciousness Scale, which has 1-5 with 5 being the lowest response. I am confused between these 2 and when it is appropriate to utilize each. Is it one or the other? I did read on page 595 of Campbell that the authors note the RLAS more often used in their experience. Thank you for your help!

[Jessica Lewis]

In terms of Pediatric Levels of Consciousness Scale vs Rancho Levels of Cognitive Functioning (make sure you know the difference between adult and pediatric scoring), I think Pediatric LOC is used to determine overall level of consciousness/alertness, whereas you can use RLAS to assess cognition and recovery patterns. It is helpful for rehab planning because it can track progression overtime, guide therapy goals, and predict functional outcomes.

GCS = how sick are they right now
Pediatric LOC = what is their level of alertness right now
RLAS = how is their brain recovering, what is their rehab potential

For generation PT use/value, I think we would use RLAS most often.

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